The Hunt Backcountry Podcast

In part five of The Backcountry Blueprint series, host Mark from Exo Mtn Gear dives into the essential physical foundation required for backcountry hunting. Drawing from a comprehensive survey of roughly 1,500 hunters, this episode distills real-world experiences, physical shortcomings, and past hunt failures into the five core physical pillars every mountain athlete needs to master. To access the resources mentioned in this discussion, along with all other episodes in this series, visit... The Backcountry Blueprint: https://exomtngear.com/blueprint Contact Us: [email protected] Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

"Form" returns to the podcast to answer your questions on a variety of topics, including optimal rifle weight, 22 vs 25 vs 6mm Creedmoor, the best support for various field shooting positions, the downsides of shooting from a tripod, recommendations for "building" a budget-conscious hunting rifle, answers for small caliber skeptics, and much more. Additional Podcasts & Resources: The Original Small Caliber Podcast Series... https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/ https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-2/ https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-qa/ Previous Q&A with Form: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/mm-239 "Form" Discusses How Far YOU Should Be Shooting at Big Game: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/498 "The 223 Thread" on Rokslide: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/223-for-bear-mountain-goat-deer-elk-and-moose.130488/ "The 6mm Thread" on Rosklide: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/6mm-243-hunting-success-on-big-game.284525/ Ballistic Comparisons: https://the-experience-project.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Ballistic-Gelatin-Comparisons.pdf ELD Standardized Gel Tests: https://the-experience-project.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Hornady-ELD-Match-147-Gel-Barrier-Testing.pdf ELD Whitepaper: https://the-experience-project.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/ELD-X_ELD-Match_Technical_Details.pdf Rifle Kraft on Sniper's Hide: https://www.snipershide.com/shooting/threads/kraft-data-driven-training-try-this.7046408/ WEZ Impact Probability Calculator: https://appliedballisticsllc.com/weapon-employment-zone-wez/ How To Shoot With Your Pack & Trekking Poles: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/rifle-shooting-with-hunting-pack The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Dr. John Deloney is a mental health expert, bestselling author, comedian — and, yes, passionate backcountry hunter. In this conversation, we explore the intersection of mental health and hunting. This conversation is unlike any other we have had over the 10+ years of The Hunt Backcountry Podcast. We explore... Escaping vs. Reconnecting: The fine line between using hunting to avoid real-life responsibilities and using it as an intentional tool to find beauty, slow down, and return home as a better husband and father. Bonds Formed In The Backcountry: How modern culture has left us digitally "connected" without authentic human connections, and why hunting serves as a rare forge for authentic adult friendships. Dangers of a Hunting Identity: How easily men can get trapped in living for a "dance monkey dance" lifestyle of achievements, and how to tether your identity to something bigger than a trophy scorecard or an Instagram photo. Connect with John... Website: https://johndelony.com/ Podcast: The Dr. John Deloney Show Instagram: @johndelony Books: https://amzn.to/4wFig5a The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this fourth installment of the Backcountry Blueprint series, we dive into data from over 1,500 hunters to identify the true gear failures that end hunts early. We aren't just talking about gear that hunters "didn't like," but the specific equipment issues that negatively changed the outcome of a hunt. Steve and Mark break down the five most common failure points reported by hunters and share how you can prevent these issues before you ever hit the trailhead. The Backcountry Blueprint: https://exomtngear.com/blueprint Contact Us: [email protected] Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Kyle Kamp — Registered Dietitian, mountain athlete, owner of Valley-to-Peak Nutrition, and friend of Exo — returns to the podcast to discuss nutrition strategies for your pre-season goals. Whether you are looking to shed some weight, put on some size, or improve your performance for your training and hunting goals, Kyle discusses straightforward, science-based nutrition strategies to help you meet your goal. We dive into... Realistic Fat Loss: Why losing 1–2 pounds per week is the "sweet spot" for maintaining muscle mass and training performance. The Power of the Audit: Using tracking not as a restriction, but as a data-driven tool to understand what you are actually putting in your body. Fueling for Intensity: Understanding why "Team Versatility"—a mix of carbohydrates and fats—outperforms rigid dietary philosophies when the mountain gets steep. Protein Realities: How to calculate your protein needs based on your desired weight rather than your current weight. The Supplement Myth: Kyle shares why he personally takes zero daily supplements and how he prioritizes whole foods instead. Backcountry Preparation: How to adjust your intake as you transition from the training phase to the actual hunt to avoid going into the mountains depleted. Whether you are looking to drop weight before a September elk hunt or want to ensure you have the energy to stay strong on day seven of a backcountry trip, this episode is packed with free, actionable advice. More resources from V2P Nutrition: Website: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/ Podcast: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/podcast Articles: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/blog Backcountry Meat Care: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/backcountry-meat-care Do-It-Yourself Dehydrating Guide: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/dehydration-guide Backcountry Meal Planner: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/product-page/backcountry-pack-planner Backcountry Nutrition Course: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/program-list The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this "on-the-road" episode, Steve, Mark, and Justin recap a successful backpack spring bear hunt. The crew discusses the hunt strategy and story, the tactics that helped them find success, how the 22 Creedmoor performed, and other hunt takeaways. For photos, gear notes, and other resources from this hunt, visit: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/spring-bear-tactics-and-gear The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode of the Backcountry Blueprint series, we break down real data from 1,500 hunters to uncover the essential skills and knowledge required to make living in the wild feel like second nature. This episode moves beyond the "how-to" of hunting and focuses on the "how-to" of surviving and thriving in the backcountry. The goal is simple: master your environment so you can spend less energy on survival and more on the hunt itself. "Have less, do less, hunt more." By eliminating extras and refining your habits, you free up the mental and physical energy you need to become a more capable hunter. The Backcountry Blueprint: https://exomtngear.com/blueprint Contact Us: [email protected] Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk about hunting Mountain Goats on Kodiak Island, Alaska. Our guest, Joey Klutsch, is an Alaska Master Guide and Owner of Katmai/Aniakchak Guide Service. He will be taking the winner of The Experience Challenge on a Kodiak Mountain Goat Hunt. We discuss the logistics of the hunt, what makes this hunt unique, how to identify and judge mountain goats, what gear is and isn't required, and much more.  LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... The Experience Challenge: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Joey's Website: https://katmaiguideservice.com/ Joey's Instagram: https://instagram.com/aniakchakguideservice Alaska Mountain Goat Identification Guide: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/hunting/goathunting/pdfs/goat_identification_guide_for_web_2014.pdf The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode of the Backcountry Blueprint series, we break down real data from 1,500 hunters to uncover the most common reasons backcountry hunts fail—and how to fix them. Instead of blaming weather, pressure, or luck, the conversation zeroes in on what’s actually within your control, from quitting early and a poor mindset, to lack of preparation, physical limitations, and bad decision-making in the field. We dig into the critical factors that separate success from failure: persistence, mental toughness, effective scouting, gear management, and shot execution under pressure. Packed with honest reflection and practical takeaways, this episode is all about helping you identify your weak points, take ownership, and become a more consistent and capable backcountry hunter. The Backcountry Blueprint: https://exomtngear.com/blueprint Contact Us: [email protected] Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this bonus Q&A episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, we’re joined again by John from Evoke Endurance to tackle listener questions on training for backcountry hunts. We dive into the realities of balancing competing priorities, building fitness for multi-day hunts, and why aerobic base—not VO2 max—is the true foundation of performance in the mountains. John breaks down how to structure your training with limited time, how to think about strength vs. endurance, and what really matters when preparing for cumulative fatigue in the backcountry. We also get into practical topics like heart rate-based training, adapting plans around injuries, fueling strategies, and what to do when life inevitably disrupts your schedule. If you’re trying to train smarter—not just harder—for your next hunt, this episode is packed with actionable insight. THE TRAINING PLANS... Use code EXO before 04/30/26 to save on the training plans... 20 Week Training Plan: https://evokeendurance.com/training-plans/backcountry-hunting-20-week-training-plan/ 28 Week Training Plan: https://evokeendurance.com/training-plans/backcountry-hunting-training-plan/ LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... Episode 574 | "Building the Mountain Hunter: Physiology, Foundations, and the 20-Week Training Plan": https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/574 Episode 475 | "Proven Training Methods for the Mountain Hunter": https://the-experience-project.com/proven-training-for-mountain-hunting/ Understanding V02 Max: https://evokeendurance.com/resources/understanding-max-vo2/ Additional Free Resources from Evoke: https://evokeendurance.com/resources/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, Vince Paikowski, a former Army Ranger and winner of the Best Ranger Competition, joins us to discuss the intersection of elite military conditioning and backcountry hunting. Vince discusses his work as a coach with Evoke Endurance, where he helps develop specialized training plans for rugged mountain environments. We discuss… The Best Ranger Competition: Insights into the grueling 60-hour endurance event that tests the physical and cognitive limits of two-man Ranger teams. Rucking Mechanics: Why walking fast is more efficient than running under load and how to build "ruck economy" through progressive weight increases. Shooting Under Fatigue: A breakdown of military studies showing how high aerobic fitness preserves marksmanship and cognitive decision-making during physical stress. Training Without Mountains: Practical strategies for flat-land athletes, including hill sprints, plyometric complexes, and using "stress inoculation" to prepare for the mental challenges of a hunt. The Evolution of the Ranger: A historical look at how soldier size and training requirements have shifted from WWII to the modern era, and the potential costs of prioritizing muscle mass over aerobic capacity. Whether you are preparing for a 10-day mountain hunt or looking to improve your overall resilience, this conversation will provide insights to help you become a more capable backcountry athlete. THE TRAINING PLANS... Use code EXO before 04/30/26 to save on the training plans... 20 Week Training Plan: https://evokeendurance.com/training-plans/backcountry-hunting-20-week-training-plan/ 28 Week Training Plan: https://evokeendurance.com/training-plans/backcountry-hunting-training-plan/ LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... Episode 574 | "Building the Mountain Hunter: Physiology, Foundations, and the 20-Week Training Plan": https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/574 Episode 475 | "Proven Training Methods for the Mountain Hunter": https://the-experience-project.com/proven-training-for-mountain-hunting/ Data on Rucking Fitness & Shooting Ability: https://evokeendurance.com/resources/aerobic-training-for-the-military-athlete/ Additional Free Resources from Evoke: https://evokeendurance.com/resources/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

If you had an opportunity to ask 1,500 hunters to share the most important reasons they have had success in the backcountry, what do you think they would say? If they were to remove any “luck” that helped them find success (and, yes, luck is often a factor), what was in their control that they did right? We asked those hunters, and we have those answers. As part of The Experience Challenge, we had 1,500+ hunters complete a detailed Hunt Reflection. Their answers inspired this new series, The Backcountry Blueprint. In each installment, we distill key takeaways from 1,500+ hunters to help you master the backcountry. Today, we are discussing the attributes of a successful backcountry hunt. Based on detailed reflections from 1,500+ hunters, we identified their 7 most important factors of success. The Backcountry Blueprint: https://exomtngear.com/blueprint Contact Us: [email protected] Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark announce a new schedule for the Monday Minute episodes and a new series coming to the podcast soon. They also dive into listener questions about their archery shot sequence, use of the K4 Quick-Release Rifle Carrier, choosing between First Focal Plane and Second Focal Plane rifle scopes, and share some helpful advice from a listener about backcountry rescue. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, mental performance expert Ben explains how hunters can master their "interior world" to overcome pressure and fatigue on demanding backcountry hunts. By breaking down complex psychological concepts, like the CBT triangle and the ABC model, into actionable tools, he provides a roadmap for building genuine confidence. The conversation emphasizes that mental toughness is a practiced skill, developed through intentional discomfort and disciplined focus rather than grit or genetics. The Two Buckets of Performance: Ben simplifies mental performance into two primary objectives: managing emotions in difficult situations and training attention to be where it needs to be. The WIN Acronym: To stay grounded in the present, Ben suggests using WIN (What’s Important Now). This helps performers move past previous mistakes or future anxieties and focus on the next right decision. The ABCs of Mindset: Behavior is often a result of an Activating Event, a Belief, and a Consequence. By changing the underlying belief (B) about a situation, an individual can radically change their emotional and behavioral response (C) to the same event. Confidence vs. "Faking It": True confidence is not about "faking it until you make it," which Ben argues is unsustainable. Instead, it is built by pairing real-world experience with true, evidence-based self-talk that focuses on things within the individual's control. Physiological Regulation: In high-pressure moments (like "buck fever"), breathing is the most effective tool for regulating the nervous system. Slowing down the exhale helps down-regulate the body, signaling the brain that it is safe and reducing jitters or racing thoughts. Redefining Mental Toughness: Mental toughness isn't just about physical strength; it’s a constellation of skills that allow for peak performance regardless of setbacks. It involves being intentional during training by removing distractions (like music or podcasts) to build a stronger mind-body connection. LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... 4 Core Mental Skills (PDF): https://exomtngear.com/core-mental-skills Ben's Website: https://theexaminedlifecounseling.com/ Ben's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theexaminedlifecounseling/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark discuss listener questions about a 5-day elk hunt strategy (scouting, hunting, and packing), what they do for rescue plans and logistics on remote adventure hunts, their experience with Spartan Precision bipods, how they think about choosing a rifle cartridge, and more... The "Tallboy" Nalgene Holder — https://exomtngear.com/tallboy Global Rescue — https://www.globalrescue.com/ IMG Rescue — https://www.imglobal.com/assistance-services/global-rescue Garmin Search & Rescue — https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/906397/ Spartan Precision Podcast — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/177 & https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/306 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

John Frieh from Evoke Endurance joins us to discuss a new 20-week training plan, developed in collaboration with Scott Johnston, specifically designed for the unique demands of backcountry hunting. The conversation explores the physiological foundations of endurance, the importance of structured programming, and how hunters can transition from being "strong" to being "aerobically fit" for the mountains. Why Fitness is a Specific Task Definition: Fitness is defined as the specific ability to perform a chosen task; being fit for one activity often means being "unfit" for another if the training is too specialized. Safety: In mountain hunting, fitness acts as a safety buffer that determines your ability to handle multi-day efforts and return home safely. The Hunting Demand: Unlike many mountain sports where loads decrease over time, hunting is unique because the physical demand often peaks at the end when packing out an animal. The Power of the Aerobic "Gas Tank" Mitochondria: Endurance is powered by mitochondria, the "powerhouses" of the cells that produce energy (ATP) from fat. Efficiency: Proper aerobic training increases mitochondrial density, which John compares to upgrading a truck's fuel economy—allowing you to go longer and faster without running out of "gas." The Deficiency: Most hunters are already strong but "aerobically deficient," meaning they lack the efficiency to move all day without getting "cranky" or hitting a wall. Structured Training Phases A successful program follows a linear progression to give the body clear, "un-muddled" messages for adaptation: Aerobic Base: The foundation of the program involves low-intensity work (Zone 2) to build mitochondria. This phase often feels "boring" or "slow" but is mandatory for long-term success. Max Strength: This phase focuses on the "motor." It uses high weights and low repetitions to improve the neurological connection between the brain and muscles without adding unnecessary bulk. Muscular Endurance: The final phase pulls the "tank" and "motor" together using sport-specific training, such as hiking with heavy packs (starting around 40 lbs), to prepare for the actual hunt. Training Logistics and Common Mistakes Avoid the "Shortcut": There is no 6-week shortcut to elite endurance; aerobic systems can take up to seven years to fully maximize. Heart Rate Discipline: Monitoring heart rate is the only way to ensure you are training the correct energy system. If you cannot breathe through your nose or hold a conversation, you are likely going too hard and missing the aerobic benefit. Strength Bias: Many athletes fall into the trap of only training what they are already good at (usually strength for hunters), rather than performing a "ruthless self-assessment" to find their weak links. Equipment: While a full gym is helpful, the absolute minimum requirements for this type of training are a heart rate strap and a backpack with weight. THE TRAINING PLANS... Use code EXO before 04/30/26 to save on the training plans... 20 Week Training Plan: https://evokeendurance.com/training-plans/backcountry-hunting-20-week-training-plan/ 28 Week Training Plan: https://evokeendurance.com/training-plans/backcountry-hunting-training-plan/ LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... Episode 475 | "Proven Training Methods for the Mountain Hunter": https://the-experience-project.com/proven-training-for-mountain-hunting/ Scott's Books: https://amzn.to/3zAQH42 Evoke Endurance: https://evokeendurance.com/ Your Heart Rate Zones: https://evokeendurance.com/resources/setting-your-hear-rate-zones/ Understanding Muscular Endurance: https://evokeendurance.com/resources/muscular-endurance-all-you-need-to-know/ Additional Free Resources from Evoke: https://evokeendurance.com/resources/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark discuss some of their takeaways from the recent, must-listen episode with Andy Galpin. They also answer listener questions about using hot tents and stoves for backpack hunting, what tripod and head they would buy with a $300 budget (for each item), and more... The Experience Challenge — https://exomtngear.com/challenge Andy Galpin Episode — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/573 Kyle Kamp / V2P Nutrition — https://v2pnutrition.com/ Tripod & Heads from S&S Archery — https://sandsarchery.com/collections/lightweight-tripods The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Andy Galpin returns to the show to discuss everyday habits that can help or hinder your performance as a hunter. Topics covered include physical training and injury prevention, the power of sleep, what does and doesn't matter in nutrition, mental skills for high performance, and more... Physical Preparation & Injury Prevention Identify Your "Performance Anchors": Prioritize training based on your specific weaknesses—whether it is ankle stability, back strength, or nutritional deficiencies—that are most likely to cause failure during a long hunt. Develop Tissue Tolerance: The goal is to prepare your body (specifically low back, knees, and ankles) to handle the repetitive stress of a multi-day hunt so you don't "break" on day three. Use Your Actual Gear: Do not wait until the hunt to wear your boots or pack. Wear them during daily activities or training to let your body adapt to the specific stress loads of that equipment. The Power of Sleep The Number One Risk Factor: Poor sleep is a primary driver of injury risk and negatively impacts everything from cognitive focus to food cravings. Consistency Over Duration: It is better to sleep the same six hours every night than to fluctuate between four and nine hours. Your body optimizes sleep better when it recognizes a consistent pattern. Perception Matters: A person's perception of how they slept often dictates their performance more than the actual hours of sleep they received. Nutrition & "Major in the Majors" Focus on Quality: Avoid getting lost in "minor" details like seed oils if you are still eating inconsistent meals or highly processed gas station food. The Micronutrient Factor: While calories and macros determine body composition, micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, fiber) determine how you actually feel and perform. Protein Intentionality: Many people eat less protein than they realize. Reaching high targets (e.g., 1g per pound of body weight) requires specific planning rather than just "eating meat". Mental Performance Skills Talk to Yourself, Don't Listen: To build grit, use your own name (or a nickname) when encouraging yourself. This creates a psychological detachment that allows you to view a problem as a "coach" rather than being embedded in the suffering. Physical Grounding: Use a "reset button," such as touching a specific wristband or looking at a meaningful acronym, to regain focus when you feel overwhelmed or lost. LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... The Experience Challenge: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Vitality Blueprint: https://www.vitalityblueprint.com/exo — Save 10% with code EXO10 through 04/30/26 Andy's Website: https://www.andygalpin.com/ Andy's Podcast: https://performpodcast.com/ Andy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandygalpin/ Episode 454 | Hunting & Human Performance: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/454 Episode 542 | Resilience, Joint Health, & Sleep: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/542 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener questions about hunting spring bear after a mild winter, nuances of selecting a type of bivy, determining how much shooting practice is enough (or too much), and more... The Experience Challenge — https://exomtngear.com/challenge Backpack Hunting With A Bivy Sack — https://exomtngear.com/bivy How to Hunt Mule Deer Podcast Series — https://exomtngear.com/search?q=how+to+hunt+mule+deer The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk about hunting Dall Sheep in the Brooks Range of Alaska. Our guest, Joey Klutsch, is an Alaska Master Guide and Owner of Katmai/Aniakchak Guide Service. He will be taking the winner of The Experience Challenge on a Dall Sheep hunt this August. We discuss the logistics of the hunt, what makes clients quit on difficult hunts, why mindset is more important than good gear and fitness, what gear is and isn't required, and much more.  LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... The Experience Challenge: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Joey's Website: https://katmaiguideservice.com/ Joey's Instagram: https://instagram.com/aniakchakguideservice Alaska Wildlife Notebook on Dall Sheep: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/education/wns/dall_sheep.pdf Alaska Guide to Judging Dall Sheep: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/hunting/dallsheephunting/pdfs/dall_sheep_guide_to_judging_sheep_horns_under_full_curl_regulation.pdf The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Marks goes solo to answer listener questions about hunting elk off-trail and making noise, why we haven't recommended spotting scopes from Leupold, what we should do about a proposed hunting ban in Oregon, and more. Links mentioned in this episode... The Experience Challenge — https://exomtngear.com/challenge Exo Newsletter — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter "Roosevelt vs Rocky Mountain Elk, And How to Hunt Both" — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/142 "Changes & Challenges to Hunting & Wildlife with John Stallone" — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/491 "Finding & Protecting Alaska with Bjorn Dihle" — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/563 Howl for Wildlife — https://www.howlforwildlife.org/ Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership — https://trcp.org The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Return guest, Josh Kuntz, joins us to discuss his recent hip replacement and his late-season elk hunting in Arizona. We explore the mindset needed to push through setbacks, the value of an active lifestyle, elk hunting in Arizona, and more. "Better Basecamp, Better Hunting" — http://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/329 "Shared Success on Backcountry Bulls" — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/390 Josh's Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/josh.kuntz/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark discuss the purpose of The Experience Challenge, and how you can join this week. Registration is only open through this Sunday (March 15th)... https://exomtngear.com/challenge The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

"Live" from the road, again, Steve kinda-sorta hosts this podcast. We discuss the pre-Challenge for everyone who wants to win the Sheep hunt as part of The Experience Challenge, we recap our time in BC for the Mountain Hunting Expo, and we dive into listener-submitted questions about hunting elk in fresh burns, archery gear upgrades, and more. https://exomtngear.com/challenge CHAPTERS... 00:00 — Road Trip Reflections 02:59 — Insights from the Wild Sheep Society Expo 06:13 — The Importance of Mental Toughness 08:52 — Preparing for the Experience Challenge 11:57 — Time Commitment for Hunting Challenges 14:55 — Hunting After Wildfires 18:00 — Safety in Burned Areas 21:05 — Archery Gear Recommendations 23:57 — Building Confidence in Archery 26:55 — Experiencing the Thrill of the Hunt 30:01 — Closing Thoughts and Future Plans The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

"Live" from the road, Steve takes over to host the podcast with Mark and Justin along. You'll hear about Steve's surprise emergency room visit (last night), their plans for the Mountain Hunting Expo in BC this weekend, what's to come with The Experience Challenge, and more. https://exomtngear.com/challenge CHAPTERS... 00:00 — Introduction 03:00 — Emergency Room Experience 05:59 — Kidney Stone Insights 08:56 — Planning for the Mountain Hunting Expo 12:00 — Experience Challenge Overview 14:59 — Shooting and Hunting Preparation 17:57 — Alaska Hunting Plans 20:56 — Reflections on Past Hunts 24:02 — Community and Engagement 27:00 — Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Travis from Silvercore Outdoors joins us for a wide-ranging conversation that covers hunting, firearms training, entrepreneurship, and the importance of disconnecting from technology. We explore the relationship between mindset, instincts, and the art of hunting; the importance of community and collaboration in the hunting world; the value of sharing experiences, and more. Silvercore Outdoors: http://silvercore.ca/ Silvercore Podcast: https://www.silvercore.ca/podcast Silvercore Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors/ Travis' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav/ CHAPTERS... 00:02:09 — The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Mindset 00:08:36 — Understanding Firearm Safety and Training in Canada 00:14:01 — The Passion for Hunting and Connection with Nature 00:18:48 — Experiences at SHOT Show and the Firearm Industry 00:22:30 — Disconnecting from Technology and Finding Balance 00:37:11 — Shifts in Training Demographics and Motivations 00:40:03 — The Impact of Media on Perception and Fear 00:45:11 — Reading Human and Animal Behavior 00:46:50 — Heuristics in Reading Animals and People 00:49:46 — Trusting Your Instincts in Hunting 00:50:51 — The Two-Way Process of Reading 00:53:23 — Mindset and Energy in Hunting 00:55:32 — The Podcast Journey and Conversations 01:01:01 — Success and Mindset in Hunting 01:09:32 — Community and Collaboration in Hunting 01:12:11 — Navigating Information Overload 01:14:09 — Reflections on Hunting Seasons 01:20:06 — Sharing Experiences in Hunting 01:22:55 — Defining Success Beyond Material Gains The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark discuss upcoming Exo in-person events, the soon-coming Experience Challenge, and answer listener questions about training strength vs endurance, shooting from a tripod vs trekking poles, and more. Chapters... 00:00 — Introduction to the Monday Minute 02:53 — Details of Upcoming Challenges 06:50 — Strength Training vs. Endurance Training 11:29 — Shooting Techniques: Tripod vs. Quick Sticks 23:00 — Creative Shooting Support Techniques Links for this episode... The Experience Challenge Waitlist: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Wild Sheep Society of BC's Mountain Hunting Expo: https://www.wildsheepsociety.com/mhe Northwest Hunt Expo in OR: https://nwhuntexpo.com/ Dry-Fire Drills at Home: https://exomtngear.com/dryfire Shoot from Pack & Trekking Poles: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/rifle-shooting-with-hunting-pack Wiser Precision Quick-StiX: https://sandsarchery.com/products/wiser-precision-quick-stix Wiser Precision Ridge Warden Ball/Tilt Head: https://sandsarchery.com/products/wiser-precision-bt-20-ridge-warden-ball-tilt-head The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, a listener of the show, Jim, shares his experience and insights on hunting mountain lions in the Pacific Northwest. He discusses the best times and locations to hunt, calling strategies and hunting techniques, the importance of patience and woodsmanship, and the unique experience of eating mountain lion meat. If you want a better understanding of the challenges and excitement that come with hunting these elusive predators, you will enjoy this episode. "It's high energy and high adrenaline." Jim's Instagram: @pnw_mountain_lion CHAPTERS... 00:02:02 — Jim's Background and Experience 00:05:37 — Historical Figures in Hunting 00:08:14 — Understanding Mountain Lion Hunting Seasons 00:11:19 — Oregon's Mountain Lion Quotas and Regulations 00:15:25 — The Experience of Eating Mountain Lion 00:17:23 — Aging and Sizing Mountain Lions 00:19:49 — Targeting Areas for Mountain Lion Hunting 00:24:47 — Calling Techniques and Setups 00:29:01 — Placement and Visibility in Calling 00:33:16 — Stealth and Approach of Mountain Lions 00:36:38 — Equipment and Safety in Mountain Lion Hunting 00:40:29 — Close Calls and Recovery Experiences 00:42:54 — Vocalizations and Calling Strategies 00:44:41 — Patience and Woodsmanship in Hunting 00:46:29 — State Regulations and Costs for Mountain Lion Hunting 00:50:24 — Overlooked Hunting Adventures The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark are back from Hunt Expo and share some thoughts from the show, and also answer listener-submitted questions about the best K4 Pack Accessory, what is different on the packs that Exo sells to the Military, if they will be shooting a new flagship bow for 2026, and more... Links for this episode... The Experience Challenge Waitlist: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Roughridge Stove: https://roughridgestove.com/ K4 Nalgene Holder: https://exomtngear.com/nalgene K4 Pack Materials: https://exomtngear.com/usa Wild Sheep Society of BC's Mountain Hunting Expo: https://www.wildsheepsociety.com/mhe Northwest Hunt Expo in OR: https://nwhuntexpo.com/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, a listener of the show, Caleb, shares his journey into sheep hunting in Alaska, detailing his first successful solo hunt. He discusses the challenges he faced, including planning, logistics, and the importance of hydration and nutrition. Caleb reflects on the emotional aspects of the hunt, the thrill of spotting and taking a legal ram, and the physical demands of packing out. "I was ready to get out." Caleb's Self-Filmed Hunt Video — https://youtu.be/-pZ3PxHc7iA The Experience Challenge — https://exomtngear.com/challenge CHAPTERS... 00:02:19 — Caleb's Background and Move to Alaska 00:07:26 — First Sheep Hunt Experience 00:10:30 — Planning the Successful Sheep Hunt 00:18:40 — The Hunt Begins: Setting Up Camp 00:24:06 — Challenges of Solo Hunting and Water Management 00:32:06 — The Opener: Anticipation and Illness 00:37:51 — Spotting the Legal Ram 00:45:47 — The Moment of Truth: Taking the Shot 00:50:10 — Reflections on the Accomplishment 01:02:21 — Packing Out: The Reality of the Journey 01:08:55 — Final Thoughts and Takeaways The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your questions about The Experience Challenge — discussing the official launch date, participant eligibility, challenge details, required gear, the purpose behind the challenge, and more... Join the Challenge waitlist: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Links for this episode... The Experience Challenge: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Mark's Sheep Gear List (and video): https://exomtngear.com/sheep-gear Joey's Sheep Gear List: https://katmaiguideservice.com/dall-sheep-gear-and-equipment/ Western Hunting & Conservation Expo in SLC: https://huntexpo.com/ Wild Sheep Society of BC's Mountain Hunting Expo: https://www.wildsheepsociety.com/mhe Northwest Hunt Expo in OR: https://nwhuntexpo.com/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A listener of the show, Russell, joins us to share the story of a do-it-yourself elk and mule deer in Colorado, which he went on with his Dad, brother, and a couple of llamas. As non-residents, we hear how they planned and prepared for this hunt, what Russell learned from pre-season scouting, how the hunt unfolded, what they experienced hunting with llamas for the first time, and much more. "I just want to go hunt." CHAPTERS... 00:04:06 — Choosing Colorado: The Hunt's Background 00:09:03 — The Unique Experience of Hunting with Llamas 00:15:00 — Scouting and Preparing for the Hunt 00:26:49 — The First Days of Hunting: Successes and Challenges 00:39:46 — Lessons Learned from the Hunt 00:56:00 — Reflections on the Experience and Future Plans The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, we learn from Alaska Master Guide and Owner of Katmai/Aniakchak Guide Service, Joey Klutsch. We discuss the challenges of mountain hunting, the importance of physical and mental preparation, and the realities of guiding clients through demanding hunts. Joey shares insights on gear that matters for mountain hunting, the dynamics of client relationships, and the impact of population changes on hunting regulations, and a whole lot more. "You have to want it to succeed." LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... The Experience Challenge: https://exomtngear.com/challenge Joey's Website: https://katmaiguideservice.com/ Joey's Instagram: https://instagram.com/aniakchakguideservice CHAPTERS... 00:03:01 — Meet Joey Clutch: A Guide's Journey 00:11:01 — The Challenges of Mountain Hunting 00:21:50 — Mental Toughness in Hunting 00:25:22 — The Importance of Preparation 00:31:39 — Understanding Special Use Permits 00:37:15 — Gear Essentials for Successful Hunts 00:44:19 — The Art of Guiding: Client Relationships 00:52:11 — Population Dynamics and Hunting Regulations 00:56:17 — Booking Hunts: Strategies and Considerations 01:09:21 — Tipping Your Guide: Best Practices The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Announcing The Experience Challenge. A challenge where you could win a Dall Sheep or Mountain Goat hunt in Alaska. This is not a raffle. This is not a contest. This is a challenge. You vs you. Do the work, and you're in. In this episode, Steve & Mark explain the vision behind the Challenge and begin to share some details for how all of this will work. If you are interested... no, not just interested... If you are committed, then sign up to learn more and get the first chance at joining the Challenge: https://exomtngear.com/challenge The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, we dive deep into the vast wilderness of Alaska with Bjorn Dihle, a lifelong Alaska resident and outdoorsman. From the intricacies of bear viewing and the challenges of hunting blacktail deer to the controversial Ambler Road project, Bjorn shares his unique experience and perspectives, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged with conservation efforts, the unique beauty and challenges of Southeast Alaska, and much more. "This is your land; it matters to you." LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... Bjorn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjorndihle/ Bjorn's Books: https://amzn.to/4a2Z5rs https://huntfishbrooksrange.com/ https://www.northernjournal.com/ https://www.trcp.org/ https://salmonstate.org/salmonstate-campaigns/#southeast CHAPTERS... 00:00:00— Exploring the Wilds of Alaska 00:02:11— Meet Bjorn: A Lifelong Alaskan Adventurer 00:10:17— The Dynamics of Bear Viewing and Conservation 00:15:00— The Ambler Road Project: Controversies and Implications 00:26:17— Southeast Alaska: A Hunter's Paradise 00:32:21 — The Unique Challenges of Hunting Blacktails 00:54:52 — Understanding Bear Behavior and Safety 01:12:32 — Bjorn's Insights on Conservation and Future of Alaska The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Jasen, a listener of the show, joins us to share lessons from his elk hunting journey. Over many years of hunting, Jasen has had plenty of success, along with many years of struggle. He discusses the importance of constantly assessing and adjusting your approach to hunting, the lessons he has learned from solo hunting, how family dynamics factor into his hunting journey, and much more. CHAPTERS... 00:02:49 — Jasen's Hunting Origins 00:06:20 — Family Dynamics and Hunting 00:14:50 — Consistency, Not Complacency 00:22:08 — Success to Struggle 00:37:32 — Knowledge Through Experience 00:49:15 — Close Encounters with Elk 01:10:54 — A New Approach to Hunting 01:19:09 — Solo Hunting & Sharing Support The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

"Live" from the road, we recap the best new gear we saw at SHOT Show, answer listener-submitted questions, and provide updates on K4x and The Experience Project. Links for items mentioned in this episode... MTN Gear Chassis: https://www.mtngear.nz/products/expeditionchassis Schnee Torre Ultralight: http://schnees.com/torre-ultralight-0g-men-s/ Longshot Target Camera System: https://www.longshotcameras.com/ Coast WPH20R Headlamp: https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1029249031 Nightforce NX6: https://www.nightforceoptics.com/riflescopes/products/nx6/nx6-2-12x42mm-f1/ Garmin Zero L60i Rangefinder: https://sandsarchery.com/products/garmin-xero-l60i-laser-rangefinder Spot Hogg ROTI Modular Sight: https://sandsarchery.com/products/spot-hogg-roti-modular-sight-system Swarovski Balance Spotting Scopes: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-at-st-balance On Glass Digiscoping Adapter: https://onglassadapter.com/ Sheep Feet Stalking Shoe: https://sheepfeetoutdoors.com/products/stealth-bombers-stalking-camp-shoe Argali Outdoor Apparel: https://argalioutdoors.com/collections/technical-hunting-clothing The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, Rob shares his journey from being a customer of S&S Archery to becoming a key player in the company. He discusses his transition from corporate IT to the outdoor industry, highlighting the challenges and rewards of working in a field he is passionate about. Rob also opens up about his recent battle with throat cancer, detailing the physical and emotional challenges he faced during treatment and how it shaped his perspective on life and hunting. His story is one of resilience, support from friends and family, and the joy of returning to the outdoors after overcoming adversity. LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... S&S Archery $500 Giveaway: https://sandsarchery.com/pages/newsletter (Winner chosen on February 1, 2026) Rob's Kodiak Hunt Film: https://youtu.be/_qwgsA37G8s Mark's Kodiak Gear Lessons: https://exomtngear.com/kodiak-gear Shop @ S&S Archery: https://sandsarchery.com/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, we catch up with Nick as he recounts his transformative caribou hunt in Alaska. We discuss his preparation, including physical training and mentorship, and the mental challenges faced in the Alaskan tundra. Nick shares the excitement of spotting caribou bulls and the emotions surrounding his successful first shot. We also explore the instinctive process of harvesting the animal and the camaraderie built throughout the adventure, highlighting the deeper meanings of hunting and connection with nature. Nick's Before-the-Hunt Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/531 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast CHAPTERS... 1:29 — Catching Up with Nick 1:47 — Pre-Hunt Preparations 5:20 — Alaska Drop Camp Overview 7:33 — Arrival in Alaska 11:55 — Traveling to the Hunting Grounds 18:27 — First Impressions of the Tundra 21:10 — Setting Up Camp 22:28 — Navigating the Tundra 29:24 — The First Few Days 31:48 — Learning to Identify Caribou 37:38 — Mental Toughness in the Hunt 39:26 — Passing the Time in the Tent 39:38 — Weather Changes 43:30 — The First Bull Sighting 51:18 — The Moment of Truth 53:30 — Post-Shot Reflections 1:02:53 — Breaking Down the Caribou 1:12:01 — The Joy of Packing Out 1:16:27 — Final Days and Packing Up 1:20:59 — Logistics of Returning Home 1:27:15 — Reflection and Conclusion

Last month, we selected the winner of the "Best Moment" category from the Exo Experience photo contest. That winner, Shane, and his brother, Alec, join us today to share their do-it-yourself Mountain Goat hunt in Montana. "Pursuing mountain goats in the backcountry is a tough endeavour! After 8 days in the mountains, covering more than 85 miles and gaining over 25,000' of elevation, we were finally able to locate a lone billy in a remote area of the unit. After all the effort we put into finding, shooting, and retrieving the billy, we cherished an incredible night under the stars at camp." —Shane Shane's Winning Photo — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/exo-experience-best-pack-and-best-moment-photos Previous Podcasts with Shane — Episode 371 & Episode 372 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Last month, we selected the winner of the Best Pack Photo from the Exo Experience photo contest. That winner, Ryan, joins us today to share the full story of his hunt. "I have been trying to harvest a mature Billy on the south coast of British Columbia for several years now. Although this region offers an over-the-counter opportunity to hunt goats, success rates are incredibly low, with only 1 or 2 goats typically being harvested each year. The area is widely considered some of the toughest, most unforgiving terrain in the province. This type of adventure pushes you past your perceived limits and proves how important it is to have the right partners. Killing this Billy was 100% a team effort. (PS: This was my first packout with the K4, since purchasing it in November of 2024. I am kicking myself for not getting an Exo pack sooner!)" —Ryan In this episode, Ryan and his friend Regan share their experiences and tell the story of their adventurous do-it-yourself mountain goat hunt. Ryan's Winning Photo — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/exo-experience-best-pack-and-best-moment-photos The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Last month, we selected the winner of the Best Photo Story from the Exo Experience photo contest. That winner, Kenny, joins us today to share the full story of his hunt. When we selected Kenny's winning photo story, we had no idea just how unique the hunt was. Kenny, a resident of North Carolina, drew a limited Dall Sheep tag in Alaska. With Alaska's opportunity for non-residents to hunt Dall Sheep without a guide — if the hunter is accompanied by an Alaska resident who is a second-degree relative — Kenny, his brother-in-law from Alaska, and two others embarked upon a do-it-yourself sheep hunt unlike any other. This hunt included highs, lows, and unexpected challenges — as any good sheep hunt should. In this episode, Kenny and his friend Zach share their experience as first-time, do-it-yourself sheep hunters. LINKS & RESOURCES: Kenny's Photo Story: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/exo-experience-photo-story-winner Exo Experience Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Example Sheep Hunt Gear List: https://exomtngear.com/sheep-gear The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss your questions about how they utilize the meat they bring home from hunts, the differences in rifle calibers they have used, why Exo doesn't make a fanny pack, and more... The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark have a candid conversation about the Hunt Backcountry Podcast and Exo Mtn Gear, discussing their vision, plans, products, and more... Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss training for hiking speed, the purpose of carrying a bipod AND a tripod when rifle hunting, what non-hunting items should be on your Christmas list (a toothbrush?), choosing between Creedmoors, and more... Links for this episode... How to Hike Heavy (Podcast): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/132 Steve's Toothbrush: https://amzn.to/4jbsUKS Photo Story Winner: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/exo-experience-photo-story-winner The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Petra Hilleberg joins us to discuss the history and future of Hilleberg, what sets Hilleberg tents apart, and to answer your listener-submitted questions about using Hilleberg tents for backcountry and mountain hunting. LINKS & RESOURCES: https://hilleberg.com/eng/discover/choosing-the-right-tent https://www.youtube.com/@HillebergTentmaker/videos https://www.instagram.com/hilleberg_hunting/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A listener of the show, Blake, joins us to share the story of his first elk hunt. Blake spent 12 days in the mountains — learning lessons, gaining experience, and ultimately arrowing a great bull. We discuss how Blake prepared for this hunt, how he immersed himself in elk hunting knowledge while also preventing "information overload", and the chance encounter he had in the elk woods with a previous podcast guest, Ryan (Episode 546). The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss image-stabilized spotting scopes and question their purpose and benefit. And speaking of gear with questionable value, they answer a question about suppressor covers. They also discuss recommendations for people who struggle with knee pain on downhill hikes, the results of the Exo Experience Photo Story contest, what is going on this month, and more... The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Like most backcountry hunters, we are passionate about the gear we use. At the end of each year, we like to highlight some of the favorite gear we have used for hunts throughout that year and discuss why those particular items made a difference for us personally. In this episode, Mark & Steve discuss their "gear of the year" selections for 2025... GEAR LINKS & LISTS — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/best-hunting-gear-of-2025 TIMESTAMPS... 00:00:00 — Intro 00:01:56 — "Gear of the Year" History 00:07:05 — Revisiting 2024 Selections 00:22:35 — Steve's Tripod Setup for Glassing & Shooting 00:34:42 — Airlock Industries Zero Gravity Suppressor 00:44:31 — InReach Messenger Plus 00:50:56 — Nitecore Pocket 10000 USB-C Power Bank 00:53:20 — Thermarest NeoLoft Sleeping Pad 00:58:17 — Outdoor Vitals Pursuit Hybrid Fleece 01:00:32 — Deadfall Design Chest Plate + Ivory Holster Shell (and "The Bino Bra" ;-) 01:11:03 — Defiance anTi-X Action, Pre-Fit 6mm Creedmoor, & Factory Ammunition 01:18:26 — onX HUNT App 01:22:18 — Mark's Honorable Mentions 01:28:58 — Exo K4x Pack System The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, we are joined by Tara & Alex from Idaho Fish & Game to discuss the all-new draw process for non-resident general elk and deer tags for Idaho's 2026 big game hunting season. We hear why the process that had been in place needed to change, the alternative solutions considered, how this new draw came to be, what non-residents need to apply for the draw, how they can apply in a group or party, if there are any changes to non-resident tag allocations, and more. LINKS & RESOURCES... What's New Overview — https://idfg.idaho.gov/article/see-whats-available-nonresident-tag-drawing-general-season-deerelk-tags-2026-and-how-apply FAQ — https://idfg.idaho.gov/licenses/tag/quotas/nonresident Big Game Seasons & Rules — https://idfg.idaho.gov/rules/big-game Refund Information — https://idfg.idaho.gov/licenses/forms/nonresident-refund Email Contact — [email protected] The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss Idaho's new and upcoming non-resident tag application process, an update on Steve's moose hunt, their experience with meat damage based on shot placement and bullet choice, pack failures they have experienced from testing prototypes, the best way to use Exo packs for lightweight day hunts, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES... Last Call! — Photo Story Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience K4x Updates: https://exomtngear.com/K4x Load A Pack for Day Hunts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEwuuQSMiBo The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark just returned from Kodiak and they answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They also discuss Exo's once-a-year sale, which starts tomorrow (November 18, 2025). If you are hearing this episode as it is released on Monday, November 17, use the code EARLY20 at checkout to get 20% OFF before the public sale goes live. LINKS & RESOURCES... Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Exo Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Foxtail Lodge: https://www.kodiakalaskafishinglodge.com/ Kahtoola MicroSpikes: https://amzn.to/3K5TOXm New Kahtoola Lightweight Spikes: https://amzn.to/4pgI2bI Black Diamond Spikes: https://amzn.to/4rmGKxN Showa Waterproof Gloves: https://amzn.to/4nWEWZ5 Wiser Precision Quick-StiX: https://sandsarchery.com/products/wiser-precision-quick-stix The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join us "live" from Foxtail Lodge on Kodiak Island, Alaska. This conversation takes place on the day we arrive, before we begin our weeklong adventure hunting Sitka Blacktail Deer, shooting ducks, and fishing the sea. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

John Jensenius is a former meteorologist and lightning safety expert with the National Weather Service who now works with the National Lightning Safety Council. He joins us to discuss what we, as backcountry and mountain hunters, should know about the risks of lightning exposure, the actions to take when storms occur, and misconceptions about lightning strikes. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark are back to answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute. They also discuss updates on what is going on at Exo this month — from being out of the office to launching a once-a-year sale... LINKS & RESOURCES... $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Exo Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Packing Without Stuff Sacks: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-load-your-pack-for-a-multi-day-backpack-hunt Airlock Industries Suppressor Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/549 6mm 108 ELD-M: https://www.hornady.com/bullets/rifle/6mm-.243-108-gr-eld-match#!/ 6mm 96 TMK: https://sierrabullets.com/6mm-95-gr-tipped-matchking-tmk/ Exo Pack Carry On Tips: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5Uey9pu49w Down Glassing Mittens: https://firstlite.com/products/brooks-down-glassing-mitt The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A listener of the show, Klint, joins us to share the story of planning his first mountain hunt, getting diagnosed with aggressive cancer during the process, and battling back to make the hunt still happen after his recovery. We hope you are inspired and challenged by Klint's story. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

If a suppressor was truly designed for backcountry and mountain hunting, how would it be different from other suppressors on the market? We answer that question with Danny from Airlock Industries. We also discuss why (and how) Danny started making suppressors, why he focused on ultralight designs, his design and testing process, what is to come for Airlock in the future, and much more... https://airlockindustries.com/ https://www.instagram.com/airlockindustriesllc/ https://www.youtube.com/@AirlockIndustries The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Exo Experience Photo Story Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Jake joins Mark to answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute. They also discuss some updates on Jake's hunting season so far this year, stupid comments on social media, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES... $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience K4x Launch Group: https://exomtngear.com/K4x Jake & Mark's Mtn Goat Hunt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hwy4H_oPDAU&list=PLxCisjM16JQUuY7xWQLdExN_rAHTxEsvv&index=8 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A listener of the show, Jim, joins us to share the story of his Dall Sheep hunt in the Northwest Territories. We discuss Jim's experience with travel and logistics, the hunt story itself, how Jim felt about the investment in this experience, the lessons he learned, and much more... Jim's Photos & Story: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/my-august-2024-dall-dream-hunt.371570/ Jim's Gear List: https://lighterpack.com/r/iaoz9l Jim's Instagram: http://instagram.com/chefinthehunt The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Exo Experience Photo Story Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve is back from his Idaho Moose hunt and joins Mark to discuss takeaways from the hunt. They also dive into listener questions about their use of the Garmin InReach, mapping and hunt planning apps, protecting a rifle on wet hunts, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES... $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Exo Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Exo YouTube: https://exomtngear.com/youtube Exo Dry Bag Liner: https://exomtngear.com/drybag Scoped Action Cover: https://www.lswild.com/store/p30/Hunter_Scoped_Action_Armor.html The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A listener of the show, Jim, joins us to discuss his Dall Sheep hunt in the Northwest Territories. As you will hear, today's conversation was recorded before the hunt, as Jim was planning and preparing for the adventure. In the next episode, Jim joins us after his hunt to share the story, what he learned from the experience, and more... The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Exo Experience Photo Story Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Mark goes solo to answer your listener-submitted questions about why time "slows down" during backpack hunts, if he would trade his Swarovski ATS spotter for something smaller, advice for flying with meat and antlers, what headlamp he would recommend, if a lighter puffy jacket is worth it, and how he dealt with the emotions of losing an elk... LINKS & RESOURCES... $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Swarovski ATS: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-ats-25-50wx65-hd-spotting-scope Swarovski ATC / STC: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-atc-stc-compact-spotting-scope Alaska Air Cargo: https://www.alaskacargo.com/ Headlamps for Backpack Hunting: https://the-experience-project.com/headlamps-for-backpack-hunting/ Fenix HM50R v2: https://amzn.to/4gUsM0Z Biolite Range Headlamps: https://www.bioliteenergy.com/pages/meet-the-range-series KUIU SuperDown: https://www.kuiu.com/collections/super-down Outdoor Vitals Puffy Jacket: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vantage-alpine-down-jacket The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

"I just got home from my second year in a row of successful backpack solo elk hunting with the bow — last year with a cow, and this year with my first bull. I know that several of my deliberate decisions during the hunt (which are things I learned from listening to your podcast) led to my success. So thank you!" —Ryan We received that email from today's guest, Ryan. But that email is only part of the story. Ryan spent many years hunting elk before becoming successful over the past couple of hunts. In today's podcast with Ryan, we discuss the highs and lows of do-it-yourself solo elk hunting, what Ryan learned over the years, how he changed his hunt strategy, and how his persistence paid off. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about Exo Mtn Gear discounts, how to pack a head and antlers, training in the gym, how to keep motivation after years of unsuccessful hunts, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES... $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience Made in the USA: https://exomtngear.com/usa InReach Mini Holder: https://exomtngear.com/inreach Packout Strap Set: https://exomtngear.com/packout-straps Swarovski ATS: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-ats-25-50wx65-hd-spotting-scope Kowa 66: https://sandsarchery.com/products/kowa-tsn-66-25-60x-spotting-scope Wiser Ridge Warden: https://sandsarchery.com/products/wiser-precision-bt-20-ridge-warden-ball-tilt-head How to Hike Heavy: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/132 Hunting & Human Performance: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/454 Training Methods for Mountain Hunting: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/475 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A listener of the show, Roman, discovered that he had drawn a Bighorn Ram tag in his home state of Colorado. As a relatively new hunter and someone who had not been putting in the sheep draws for long, Roman was beyond surprised to find out that he had drawn the tag, and he was excited to spend months planning, preparing, and scouting before opening day. We discuss how Roman spent those pre-season months, then dive into the story of the hunt itself. We conclude the conversation discussing gear takeaways, lessons learned from the hunt experience, and more. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark go Unscripted and answer your listener-submitted questions. Topics covered include lightning safety, air mattresses and inflators (yes, again), treating Exo packs with Nikwax DWR, the best water filters for backpacking, non-lead bullet recommendations, dealing with wet boots, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES... $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience $10 Exo Logo Gear: https://exomtngear.com/logo Flextail Zero Pump: https://amzn.to/46PWwso Our Water Filter Recommendations: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpack-hunting-basics-how-we-filter-carry-water Nikwax Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/544 Bullet & Ballistics Podcasts with "Form": Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

As serious backcountry hunters, we invest hundreds of dollars... Scratch that. Who are we kidding? Most of us have invested thousands of dollars in our gear. From shelters and sleep systems, to footwear, to technical apparel, there are ways to make this gear last longer and perform better over its lifetime. But far too often, we are guilty of using our gear hard, putting it away dirty, and expecting nothing to degrade. In today's podcast, we speak with Heidi from Nikwax. We hear the backstory of Nikwax, learn about their gear care products, dive into the changing regulations with DWR chemicals, and ultimately discuss a variety of topics that will help us, as backcountry hunters, get the most from our gear. As always, we have not been incentivized by Nikwax and are not endorsing their products. We simply wanted to have them on the podcast to learn about gear care in general, and also understand the differences in their product offerings and how they may benefit us. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark discuss their recent elk hunt and answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. Topics covered included tracking elk, strategies for hunting elk in archery vs rifle seasons, how to carry your bow on archery hunts, tips for preventing shelter condensation, and more... $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They also announced a new Exo Experience Photo Contest, with over $5,000 in cash and prizes being given away. Topics and questions covered include the best way to pinpoint the location of a bugling bull, advice for breaking down animals in difficult conditions, making DIY meals and snacks for backcountry hunts, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES $5,000 Photo Contest: https://exomtngear.com/experience DIY Dehdrating Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/126 Kyle's Dehydrating Guide: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/dehydration-guide Excalibur Dehydrators: https://amzn.to/3I2aLRw Cosori Dehydrators: https://amzn.to/3UZW4kX Dehydrator Tray Liners: https://amzn.to/46ndxtL DIY Backcountry Breakfast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/diy-breakfast-recipe-for-backpacking DIY Backcountry Bars: https://exomtngear.com/bars The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Chris Denham is a long-overdue guest to join us on the Hunt Backcountry Podcast. We speak with Chris about his history and longevity in the hunting industry, what has changed with Western Hunter recently, the shifts he has witnessed in hunters over the years, how he continues to live adventurously as he ages, and much more... Subscribe to Western Hunter: https://westernhunter.net/subscribe Wilderness Athlete: https://wildernessathlete.com/ Outdoorsmans: https://outdoorsmans.com/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Dr. Andy Galpin returns to the Hunt Backcountry Podcast to discuss joint health, sleep, resilience, and other elements that intersect the worlds of hunting and human performance. We dive into the benefits and downsides of fitness trackers and data from wearable devices, Steve's knee issues, why consistency is important but rigidity is a weakness, advice for managing changes in sleep schedules, travel, and more... Hunting & Human Performance: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/454 Andy's Website: https://www.andygalpin.com/ Andy's Podcast: https://performpodcast.com/ Andy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandygalpin/ Vitality Blueprint: https://www.vitalityblueprint.com/ Absolute Rest: https://www.absoluterest.com/ Knees Over Toes Guy: https://www.atgonlinecoaching.com/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They also announce all-new, at-cost logo gear, including a Hunt Backcountry Podcast hat. Listener-submitted questions and topics include: how much time should a solo elk packout take, how to use binos (and which binos to use) for archery elk hunts, which magnification is best for EL Range finos, the best model of SIG Zulu6 image-stabilizing binos, if chairs or stools are worth using when glassing, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES $10 Shirts & Hats: https://exomtngear.com/logo Hunt Backcountry Hat: https://exomtngear.com/collections/logo-gear/products/shadow-series-hunt-backcountry-hat Backpack Hunting Basics: https://exomtngear.com/basics Crazy Creek Chair for Glassing: https://amzn.to/3JwK4VA SIG Zulu6: https://sandsarchery.com/collections/sig-sauer-binoculars Swarovski EL Range T/A: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-10x42-el-range-ta-binocular 40+ Elk Podcasts: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/must-listen-elk-hunting-podcasts The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

The term "custom rifle" is grossly overused. Just because a rifle is purchased from a gun builder and not off the shelf at your local store, doesn't mean it is a "custom" rifle. And that isn't a bad thing. There are a ton of good rifle builders who build fantastic non-custom rifles. Semantics aside, this all matters because you — as a customer who may spend thousands of your hard-earned dollars — need to understand the differences and nuances in how rifles are built. We discuss these topics, and more, in today's podcast with Andrew from Tenacity Arms. Tenacity Arms: https://tenacityarms.com/ Tenacity Arms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tenacity_firearms/ Mark's Pre-Fit Rifle Build: https://exomtngear.com/prefit The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

To accurately field judge an animal, you need a solid understanding of the species' characteristics and known reference points, as well as a lot of experience judging and verifying other animals of the same species. A new app, HornScore, can help you learn how to field judge animals and make assessments of animals you may be hunting. Using your photos and videos, the HornScore app will help you field judge deer, elk, sheep, moose, and more. The app is full of educational content, as well as community content from other users of the HornScore app. In today's podcast with the app's creators, Jay Scott and Blake Cannon, we learn about the origins of the app, how it works, what the future holds, and why the app is helpful even if you aren't an inch-counting trophy hunter. HornScore App — https://hornscore.com/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions and chat on some notes from their recent hunts. They discuss optics, tripods and heads, battery-saving tips, using a knife to remove a head from big game, how to use vacation days to hunt elk in September, and much more... LINKS & RESOURCES Wiser Precision Ridge Warden: https://sandsarchery.com/products/wiser-precision-bt-20-ridge-warden-ball-tilt-head USB-C Rechargeable AA Batteries: https://amzn.to/47cHEoT Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe: https://www.themeateater.com/cook/recipes/mississippi-pot-roast Video: Using A Knife to Remove an Elk Head: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXjyzOPSGqs Airlock Industries Suppressor: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNJSuIDhz3s/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Mark recently returned from a fall bear hunt, and in this episode, he shares his notes on lessons learned, new gear tested, items that need to be replaced, and more. LINKS, DETAILS, & PHOTOS — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/post-hunt-notes-marks-fall-bear The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Sierra Jepsen is a Meat Scientist and owner of Butcher Solutions, LLC. She returns to the show to take a deeper dive into meat science and also answer your listener-submitted questions that came through after our first episode with Sierra. Additional Information and Resources... Part 1 with Sierra: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/508 Sierra's Website — https://butchersolutionsllc.com/ Sierra's Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/butcher_solutions_llc/  Video: "Everything You Need Know About Processing Wild Game" — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVLjN9CoHzI Video: "In-Depth Butchering Tips From A Meat Scientist" — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVkI46l4g4w  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

This episode features a listener of the show, Jordan, who killed an elk with his bow for 8 years straight. We discuss what Jordan has learned over years of do-it-yourself elk hunting, the mistakes he has made (and sees others make), and some of the tactics he learned from guests of our podcast, which helped contribute to his success and consistency. 40+ ELK HUNTING EPISODES: https://exomtngear.com/elk-episodes The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about backpacking with kids, hunt plans, best week of September for archery mule deer, stalking tips, flying with a hunting rifle, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES NEW Outdoor Vitals Pre-Sale: https://outdoorvitals.com/pages/mp-line-presale Outdoor Vitals Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/530 NEW Airlock Industries Suppressor: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNJSuIDhz3s/ Airlock Industries (Coming Soon): https://airlockindustries.com/ NEW Chest Holster Mount: https://sandsarchery.com/products/guardian-chest-plate Deadfall Design: https://www.instagram.com/deadfall_design/ Ivory Holsters EMG: https://ivoryholsters.com/emg Aziak Backcountry Lite Tripod: https://sandsarchery.com/products/aziak-backcountry-lite-tripod Wiser Precision Ridge Warden: https://sandsarchery.com/products/wiser-precision-bt-20-ridge-warden-ball-tilt-head How To Put On A Heavy Pack (5 L's): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-put-on-a-heavy-hunting-pack Why We Don't Recommend the K4 7200: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/why-do-we-make-the-k4-7200 How To Hunt Mule Deer (Podcast Series): https://exomtngear.com/search?q=how+to+mule+deer How To Fly With A Hunting Rifle: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-fly-with-a-hunting-rifle The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Most sheep hunt stories either include a guide or the hard-earned experience of a die-hard, do-it-yourself sheep nut. But for Erik and his buddy, Evan, there is no guide and no experience. As a resident of Alaska, Erik drew a limited-entry sheep tag for a trophy hunt. In today's podcast, you will hear how Erik and Evan are planning and preparing for this hunt. Later this fall, they will return to the show to share the story of the hunt, the lessons they learned, the gear that did/didn't work, and much more... The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about bow tuning, even if broadheads are hitting with field points, suggestions on base layers for hot-weather hunts, what to do first when you recover an animal, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES Backpack Hunting Basics — When You Shoot: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/what-to-do-when-you-shoot-an-animal Backpack Hunting Basics — When You Recover: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/what-to-do-when-you-recover-an-animal Mark's New Battery Bank: https://sandsarchery.com/products/nitecore-pocket-10k-power-bank-with-built-in-cable Compressed Wipes: https://amzn.to/47cPxdG Sitka Core Lightweight: https://www.sitkagear.com/collection/core-lightweight-collection Simms SolarFlex: https://amzn.to/46C6dv7 Outdoor Research Echo: https://amzn.to/4mscqyq Patagonia Capilene: https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-capilene-cool-daily-hoody/45310.html Anetik Sun Hoody: https://anetik.com/products/copy-of-mens-low-pro-tech-hoody-master-hoody Kuhl Hoody: https://www.kuhl.com/kuhl/mens/long-sleeve/kuhl-engineered-hoody/  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

For four years straight, Rich Froning was considered "the fittest man on earth"  as he dominated the CrossFit Games competition. After retiring from individual competition, Rich has pursued many interests, but none rivaled his passion for elk hunting. We speak with Rich about the humility required to grow as an elk hunter, what he has learned from hunting with more experienced hunters, how CrossFit prepared him for the challenges of elk hunting, and much more. Mayhem Hunt: https://www.mayhemhunt.com/ Rich's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richfroning/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Trent Fisher from Born & Raised Outdoors joins us to discuss elk hunting, his experience getting his kids into hunting, and judging big black bears. Be sure to check out ELK WEEK specials from Born & Raised through August 3rd... Elk Week Specials: https://bornandraisedoutdoors.com/ Hunting Clothing Comparison: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4RWlPgqZLg Previous Elk Episodes w/ Trent: Elk Week Podcasts The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about backcountry hygiene, the Swarovski ATC compact spotter, tire drags with the K4 Frame, gear tape, custom Crocs, their DIY backcountry bar recipes, Mark's garage workout, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES Lathrop & Sons Giveaway: http://lathropandsons.com/pages/giveaway Archery Elk Gear (Exo vs BRO): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/5-day-archery-elk-gear-list-comparison DIY Backcountry Bar Recipes: https://exomtngear.com/bars Mark's Garage Workout: https://the-experience-project.com/marks-garage-workout-for-mountain-hunting/ Swarovski ATC: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-atc-stc-compact-spotting-scope Kowa 55: https://sandsarchery.com/products/kowa-tsn-55-compact-spotting-scope Swarovski ATS 65: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-ats-25-50wx65-hd-spotting-scope Vet Wrap: https://amzn.to/4f6AnbW Camo Gear Tape: https://amzn.to/4lRXNVd & https://amzn.to/46uJy3R Colgate Wisps: https://amzn.to/40AMFn1 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Former archery engineer, competitive shooter, and accomplished hunter, Darin Cooper (@darin_cooper) comes back to The Hunt Backcountry Podcast. We discuss the details of his current bowhunting setup. But more than just a conversation about gear, this is a discussion that goes into the technical aspects of archery and bowhunting. Darin's Previous Podcasts... Critical Factors of Broadhead Flight Frank Church Sheep Success — Times Two! Building, Shooting, and Renting Rifles Expert Roundtable: The Final Moment Mindset Expert Roundtable: Unconventional Wisdom & Tactics Expert Roundtable: The Key to Consistency Expert Roundtable: Mistakes That Made Me Better Expert Roundtable: Game-Changing Gear The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about power banks vs solar panels, how to dry and care for water bladders, and things first-time backpack hunters should consider when looking to hunt in remote country with predators. We also discuss the first things to do when you shoot an animal, why we are grateful as F@#K, trusting the process, if Steve can manifest an elk with his mind, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES Podcast Giveaway + Exo Discount: https://exomtngear.com/podcast (Entry deadline is Midnight on July 25) First Steps When You Shoot: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/what-to-do-when-you-shoot-an-animal Mark's Pump for Drying Bladders & Cooling Barrels: https://amzn.to/44Z5L7N Elk 101 Bow Hook: https://store.elk101.com/products/elk101-bow-hook OBI Bow/Rifle Carry: https://oldballsinc.com/pages/obi-link-system Nitecore Power Bank: https://sandsarchery.com/products/nitecore-pocket-10k-power-bank-with-built-in-cable The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We launched the very first episode of The Hunt Backcountry podcast exactly 10 years ago, on July 16, 2015. To celebrate 10 years of the podcast, we are offering some great prizes and an exclusive Exo discount. To enter the giveaway and get access to the discount, sign up by email at: https://exomtngear.com/podcast. This promotion is only running for 10 days, from July 16-25th, 2025. THANK YOU for supporting the podcast over these past 10 years! ENTER NOW: https://exomtngear.com/podcast Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about how we sharpen our hunting knives, Mark's lessons from his mountain bike race, why S&S Archery removed their spotting scope comparison video from YouTube, where we carry our water bladders in a K4 Pack, what to avoid when storing a weighted pack for summer training, and more... LINKS & RESOURCES American-Made Gear Giveaway: https://swee.ps/KkZMPBCSH Backpacking Light Course: https://backpackinglight.com/backcountry-hunting-ultralight-gear-strategies/ Our Podcast with Ryan from Backpacking Light: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/462 Knife Sharpening: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpack-hunting-basics-how-we-sharpen-knives Experience Project HUNT Films: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxCisjM16JQUuY7xWQLdExN_rAHTxEsvv Our Water Filtration & Carry System: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpack-hunting-basics-how-we-filter-carry-water Load Your Pack for a Day Hunt: https://youtu.be/xEwuuQSMiBo Load Your Pack for a Backpack Hunt: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-load-your-pack-for-a-multi-day-backpack-hunt The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A listener of the show, Nick, joins us to discuss his recent experience at an elk hunting bootcamp, how he is preparing for his first trip to Alaska for a Caribou hunt this September, how his previous experience as an outdoor guide has influenced his early days as a hunter, and much more. We will record a post-hunt podcast with Nick later this fall to hear all about his adventure in Alaska. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about using base layer bottoms vs puffy pants, eating game meat from CWD areas, the broadhead they're shooting this year, and more... Links & Resources American Made Gear Giveaway: https://swee.ps/KkZMPBCSH Brynje Fishnets: https://www.brynjeusa.com/product-category/wool-thermo/ Steller Down Pants: https://www.stellarequipment.com/product/m-ultralight-down-pants2-blublack/ Western Mountaineering Flight Pants: https://www.blackovis.com/western-mountaineering-flight-pants Ketl Mtn Shorts: https://ketlmtn.com/products/virtue-hybrid-short-9-v-3 Sevr Ti 1.5 Hybrid: https://www.sevrbroadheads.com/product/hybrid15/ Podcast: What You Need To Know About CWD: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/156  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

For the past 2+ years, we have been working on some apparel pieces with the guys at Outdoor Vitals. After extensive testing and refinement of the designs, these clothing items are finally set to be released in the coming months. In this conversation with Brigham Crane, the Product Design Director at Outdoor Vitals, we discuss the background of this unique project, dive deep into the design details of each of the three pieces (puffy jacket, active mid-layer, and pants), and share the timeline for these new items to come to market. EPISODE SECTIONS (00:00:00) INTRO (00:04:00) PROJECT BACKGROUND (00:22:34) PUFFY JACKET (00:53:12) ACTIVE MID-LAYER (01:16:20) PANTS (01:36:14) WHAT'S NEXT LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... Product Release Sign-Up: https://outdoorvitals.com/pages/alpine-line-optin-western-hunt-expo-2025  Rokslide Thread: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/new-developments-coming-this-summer.403389/  Experience Project Hunt Films: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxCisjM16JQUuY7xWQLdExN_rAHTxEsvv  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about taking follow-up shots when bowhunting, tips for carrying a rifle (stock or folding chassis) on a pack, a new K4 Bag from Shoot2Hunt, budget-friendly spotting scopes from Athlon Optics, using iPhone satellite messaging in place of an InReach, and more... Links & Resources... Exo Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  Mike Lee's Announcement on Public Lands: https://x.com/SenMikeLee/status/1939132778605388207  Shoot2Hunt "Teratorn" K4 Bag: https://exomtngear.com/s2h AND https://shoot2hunt.com/teratorn/  Rifle Carry Tips & Technique: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-carry-chassis-hunting-rifle  Athlon Spotting Scope: https://sandsarchery.com/products/athlon-ares-g2-uhd-15-45x-65mm-spotting-scope  Rent Outdoor Gear: https://rentoutdoorgear.com/  Rex Creations UL Pad Pump: https://rex-creations.com/collections/frontpage  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

John Lusk of Lusk Archery Adventures joins us to discuss priorities for broadhead selection, what he has learned from independently testing and ranking dozens of broadheads, and answers your listener-submitted questions about broadhead selection, budget arrow and broadhead setups, differences in blade and ferrule materials, broadhead vs insert/outsert weight, and MUCH more! LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE... Summary Video & Spreadsheet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPXWWwX3_iA  John's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LuskArcheryAdventures John's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luskarcheryadventures/  John's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luskarcheryadventures/  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about food for backpack hunts, bear meat recipes, tripod heads for shooting and glassing, boot care, quilts, and more... Links & Resources... Limited $10 Shirts for Women & Kids: https://exomtngear.com/logo (Order deadline is June 25) What we eat on backpack hunts (and how we pack it): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpack-hunting-basics-the-food-we-eat Katabatic Quilts: https://katabaticgear.com/collections/quilts Ridge Warden Ball Tilt Head: https://www.wiserprecision.com/products/bt-20-ridge-warden-ball-tilt-head  Obenauf's LP: https://amzn.to/3HSxUWc  Granger Boot Care: https://amzn.to/46apCCV  Nikwax Waterproofing Wax: https://amzn.to/43ZE1Re  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

This is a great listener hunt story with Ryan, about his do-it-yourself black bear hunt in Alaska. We discuss how Ryan planned this hunt, the logistics involved, how the hunt went, what he learned from the adventure, and much more. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions and discuss some timely topics. They cover another attempt to sell public lands, what's going on at Exo behind the scenes, new shirts for women and kids coming later this week, how we filter and carry water in the backcountry, if they practice with their bow on multi-day backpack hunts, why Mark was using a suppressor cover on their recent spring bear hunt, and choosing optics for a Frank Church elk hunt. Links & Resources... Our Water Filtration System: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpack-hunting-basics-how-we-filter-carry-water  Backpack Hunting Basics: https://youtube.com/exomountaingear?sub_confirmation=1  Exo Open House & Garage Sale (RSVP!): https://exomtngear.com/pages/exo-garage-sale  Public Land Sale — Information & Action: https://www.howlforwildlife.org/keepitpublic Get Your Bow Ready for the Backcountry: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/get-your-bow-ready-for-the-backcountry LS Wild Suppressor Cover: https://www.lswild.com/store/p180/Ultralight_Suppressor_Armor_%28Custom_Fit%29.html  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Nate Simmons joins us for a wide-ranging conversation that includes a deep-dive into advanced archery, stalking strategies on mule deer, the key to his longevity and consistency, and several other listener-submitted questions. This is truly a conversation that you don't want to miss! The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about footwear for training vs hunting, the best way to load weight for rucking, what they carry in their first aid kits on backcountry hunts, and more... Links & Resources Exo Open House & Garage Sale (RSVP!): https://exomtngear.com/pages/exo-garage-sale  Outdoor Vitals Clothing & Discount: https://outdoorvitals.com/pages/alpine-line-optin-western-hunt-expo-2025  Video on Loading Weight for Training: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-ol2hnEbXc  Free Training Plan: https://exomtngear.com/training  Mark's At-Home Garage Workout: https://the-experience-project.com/marks-garage-workout-for-mountain-hunting/  Backcountry First-Aid Article & Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backcountry-hunting-first-aid-kit  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Jeremy Dugger (@muleymojo) returns to answer your questions after he recently joined us to discuss the data he has collected from 500+ bowhunters on broadhead performance, shot distance, arrow weight, and lethality. The listener-submitted questions that we discuss in this episode include: What additional data points does Jeremy wish he had collected in his samples? How does Jeremy think about the physical vs mental aspects of shooting a bow? How do bowhunter decrease their wound rate? What is Jeremy’s shot sequence, mantra, or process? Does a bow or arrow cause “flyers” in a group, or are flyers the shooter’s fault? Should bowhunters practice most at 30-40 yards, since that was the highest wound rate in Jeremy’s data? What is Jeremy’s process for bow and broadhead tuning? How much does arrow tolerance (straightness) matter for bowhunters? How does arrow diameter affect forgiveness and tuning? What advice does Jeremy have for bowhunters who want to become self-reliant for bow setup, bow tuning, arrow building, etc? And more... Jeremy's First Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/512 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about packing sleep systems, shelter choice for backpacking and hunting with kids, training for a mountain goat hunt, how many rifle rounds to pack on a backcountry hunt, and also share some new things coming this summer (and in the extended future)... Links & Resources Exo Open House & Garage Sale (RSVP!): https://exomtngear.com/pages/exo-garage-sale  Shoot2Hunt Pack: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/the-teratorn-a-shoot2hunt-x-exo-bag-collab.406328/  Outdoor Vitals Clothing: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/new-developments-coming-this-summer.403389/ Steve's Pack Loading Video: https://exomtngear.com/packloading  Marks' At-Home Workout: https://the-experience-project.com/marks-garage-workout-for-mountain-hunting/  Steve's "Epic" Mountain Goat Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pixx_Ny9MeA  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

How you load your pack matters. The way you load your gear can help or hinder the pack's performance, and it can also make you a more efficient hunter. In this podcast, Steve & Mark discuss the best ways to load a pack for multi-day backpack hunts. This conversation is a deeper dive into a pack loading video that we just published... Pack Loading Video: https://exomtngear.com/packloading Backpacking Gear Lists: https://exomtngear.com/gearlist  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions about updates on our footwear choices, if gear noise scares animals away, our gear list for the R3 Death Hike, packout discomfort, and more... Links & Resources GoFundMe for Rob's Battle with Cancer: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-rob-mcconnell-fight-throat-cancer K4 Multicam Pre-Order: https://exomtngear.com/multicam  Exo Garage Sale (RSVP): https://exomtngear.com/pages/exo-garage-sale  Mark's Air Pump: https://amzn.to/4kwl3qD  Loading a K4 Pack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xM7MhrV0rqA, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJZdVAXyHRg  Hunting Footwear Video: https://the-experience-project.com/the-best-hunting-boot-is-wrong/  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve, Mark, & Justin of Exo Mtn Gear recount their recent backpack bear hunt in Idaho. They share the story, discuss tactics and tips for spring bear (and backpack hunting in general), and touch a bit on gear. Resources mentioned in this episode... Mark's Spring Bear Gear List: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpack-bear-hunting-gear-list-and-tactics  How to Load a Bear on the K4 Frame: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xM7MhrV0rqA Justin's Previous Elk Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/317  Justin's Films & Photography: https://www.instagram.com/themtnexperience  Sony A6700: https://amzn.to/4jgr2yX  Rode Video Mic: https://amzn.to/4jgr2yX  Exo Mtn Gear Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  Exo Mtn Gear on YouTube: http://youtube.com/exomountaingear?sub_confirmation=1  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark go unscripted and answer your listener-submitted questions (without any preparation), covering topics that include: mindset and confidence for low-odds hunts, AI enhancements to hunting and implications on ethics and conservation, if Hornady's new 25 Creedmoor cartridge is worth buying, using the K4 2200 for a backpacking trip, meat care on extended hunts in warmer weather, choosing between a rifle stock or chassis for beginning backpack hunters, and more... Links & Resources 5 Sayings That Will Change How You Hunt: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/5-sayings-that-will-change-how-you-hunt How To Save Your Meat From The Heat: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/046  A “Meat Scientist” on Wild Game Care & Preparation: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/508 Rifle Chassis Comparison: https://exomtngear.com/chassis Backpack Hunting Basics — How to Get Started: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/513  Video: Shooting Support with Pack & Trekking Poles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DV4Z-R7NNXs  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

From the outside, a rifle suppressor seems simple enough. But what is going on inside? Are there notable differences in suppressors that have similar specs of length, diameter, and weight? With so many suppressors on the market, a significant investment of time and money to purchase one, and such limited availability to "try before you buy", what should hunters look for when selecting a suppressor? We dive into these questions, and many more, with Jay from Pew Science. Resources from Pew Science... Silencer Sound Standard: https://pewscience.com/silencer-sound-standard Dedicated Suppressor Reviews: https://pewscience.com/sound-signature-reviews Suppressor Rankings: https://pewscience.com/rankings  Podcast: https://pewscience.com/podcast  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Each year, we put together a group of guys and embark upon a hike to challenge our limits. Typically, the hike's location, length, and format change each year. But this year we had redemption in our sights, as we returned to the Grand Canyon for the second year in a row. The goal, at least for most, was to complete a Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim traverse TWICE. In this podcast, we have segments with several of the participants from the hike, to hear their stories, takeaways, and life-changing lessons learned in the canyon. SEGMENTS... (00:00:00) Intro (00:03:39) Steve & Mark (00:24:54) Anthony, 100-Mile Finisher (00:58:05) Gabriel (https://ivoryholsters.com/) (01:23:56) Jack, 100-Mile Finisher (02:04:07) Bryan (02:25:38) Brigham, 100-Mile Finisher RESOURCES & PAST RECAPS... https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/life-changing-lessons-from-the-exo-death-hike 2024: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/2024-death-hike 2023: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/409 2022: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/351 2021: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/279 2019: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/178 2018: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/133 2017: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/085 2016: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/044  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark tackle your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss Death Hike pack weight, velocity gain from rifle suppressors, having a wolf tag while bowhunting for elk, choosing a digiscoping adapter, how to get started with a muzzleloader for big game hunting, and more... Links & Resources OBI Link System: https://oldballsinc.com/pages/obi-link-system La Sportiva Aequilibrium Hike: https://www.lasportivausa.com/aequilibrium-hike-gtx.html Short Barrel Rifle Speeds: https://exomtngear.com/short-barrel Pre-Fit Rifle Barrel Install: https://exomtngear.com/prefit  Mindful Hunter — Best Phone Scope Adapter 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQmdTKR-jWM Kapture Gear Magnetic Digiscoping System: https://kapturegear.com/ Muzzleloader Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/258 Why You Should Start Hunting With A Muzzleloader: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/start-hunting-with-a-muzzleloader How To Start Hunting With A Muzzleloader: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-start-hunting-with-a-muzzleloader  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Alaska hunting guide, Hunter Stier, joins us to discuss his experience becoming a hunting guide, guiding vs hunting, expectations vs reality on big hunts, mindset for mountain hunting, sheep vs mountain goat hunts, and the story of guiding a record book ram last season. Connect with Hunter: https://www.instagram.com/hunterstier/ Connect with Limitless Alaska Guiding: https://www.instagram.com/limitlessalaskaguiding/  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark are back from their Death Hike in the Grand Canyon and answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They share a little bit about the hike, give an update on the apparel they helped design and test with Outdoor Vitals, share their backcountry bar recipes, and more... Links & Resources mentioned in this episode... Rokslide Thread on Outdoor Vitals Apparel: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/new-developments-coming-this-summer.403389/  DIY Backcountry Bar Recipes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11CS7dxGUB1nkH2FozQ8KQ3dKXRuz95_iu_j8jlJyZ04/view  Experience Project Caribou Hunt: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxCisjM16JQUuY7xWQLdExN_rAHTxEsvv  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Jeff Cayley joins us to share his experience completing America's Toughest Race — a multi-sport adventure race that covered 300+ miles of hiking, mountain biking, climbing, packrafting, and wayfinding. We discuss Jeff's training, lessons learned, and how his experience applies to us, as backpack hunters. Connect with Jeff... https://www.instagram.com/jeffcayley/  https://worldwidecyclery.com/ https://ketlmtn.com/ https://trailone.bike/  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss targets for shooting practice in the mountains, bug-proof base layers for spring bear hunts, electrolyte supplements for hikes and hunts, compatibility of rifle barrels and stocks/chassis, and more... Links & Resources mentioned in this episode... At-cost Exo Logo Gear: https://exomtngear.com/logo Salt Pills: https://amzn.to/4iGhXzb & https://amzn.to/4iGhXzb  Sitka Equinox: https://www.sitkagear.com/collection/equinox-guard-collection  DIY Permetherin Treatment: https://amzn.to/3YB4Jwa  Insect Shield Commercial Treatment: https://www.insectshield.com/pages/insect-shield-your-clothes Pre-Fit Barrel Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/517  Steel Target from the Listener Q: https://shootsteel.com/product/1-2-steel-target-12x20-modular-system/  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

How short is too short when it comes to choosing a barrel length for hunting? Whether you are interested in a shorter barrel for your next hunting rifle because you plan to add a suppressor, because you want to save weight, or simply because you want an easy-handling, easy-packing rifle — the fact is that short barrels are viable with today’s highly efficient bullets, laser rangefinders, and scopes that precisely and reliably dial to accommodate for drop at distance. In this podcast you will learn how to estimate velocity and effective range when considering which barrel length to choose for your next hunting rifle. The short barrel "formula" and additional information: https://exomtngear.com/short-barrel The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Andrew Skurka is an adventure athlete, guide, and writer. He raised the bar on backpacking as a long-distance thru-hiker, completing (and at times creating) routes that traversed thousands of miles over many months. We interviewed Andrew on our podcast nearly a decade ago, and in the years since then, he has launched a business that provides educational experiences through guided backpacking trips. We were excited to reconnect with Andrew to discuss backpacking education, how his personal outlook on adventure has changed in recent years, the evolution of backpacking gear, and more... Connect with Andrew... https://andrewskurka.com/  https://www.instagram.com/andrewskurka/ Our preview podcast with Andrew: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/053  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss... New $10 T-Shirts from Exo Mtn Gear (https://exomtngear.com/logo) Logistics on flying and traveling for hunts, including food for the backcountry, luggage and duffel bags for the travel, and getting meat home Backpack hunting with a non-hunting pack What hunters "need" a spotting scope (and why the optics market is a mess right now) What experiences they have with lightning in the backcountry and how they deal with it Links & resources mentioned in this episode... New Shirts: https://exomtngear.com/logo Backpacking Pack vs Hunting Pack: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpacking-vs-hunting-packs  Backpack Hunting Nutrition Guide: https://exomtngear.com/nutrition  How to use an Exo pack as a carry-on for flights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5Uey9pu49w How to travel with weapons for hunts: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-fly-with-a-hunting-rifle Duffel bag options to consider: https://amzn.to/3CHWIxW, https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/cabelas-boundary-waters-duffel-bag  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

A pre-fit barrel is a ready-to-shoot barrel that can be installed on a rifle action with minimal tools, knowledge, and skills. In this podcast with Jaden Miller of West Elk Precision, we discuss the pros and cons of pre-fit barrels, different types of pre-fit barrels, how to install a pre-fit barrel at home, and answer your listener-submitted questions about the use of pre-fit rifle barrels. PRE-FIT INSTALL VIDEO, LINKS, & MORE — https://exomtngear.com/prefit Connect with Jaden... West Elk Precision @west_elk_precision @jaden_1_2 The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Lily drew a once-in-a-lifetime Mountain Goat tag in her home state of Idaho, then was fortunate enough to kill a record book Billy on that hunt. Lily and her boyfriend, Ben, who previously had the same tag, join us on the podcast to share the hunt story, how they prepared for this hunt, Lily's perspective as a female hunter, and much more. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions and share some news and updates on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss... Your suggestions for the Exo tagline Upcoming Exo events How we train with a Peloton bike Potential for an ultralight frame stay option The importance of simplicity EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

After discussing the theory behind hunting with smaller calibers and then taking a 6mm Creedmoor to Alaska to hunt big-bodied Caribou and Moose, we are recapping our experience and answering your listener-submitted questions. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/using-the-6mm-creedmoor-for-big-game-hunting Exo Insider K4 Pack Giveaway: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

Jay Nichol of Mindful Hunter joins us to answer your listener-submitted questions. This is a very wide-ranging conversation, as we discuss everything from boxers for the backcountry, how much you should tip a hunting guide, issues with hunting influencers, budget gear recommendations, the best do-it-all spotting scope size, and MUCH more. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Resources & Reviews from Jay... Forged Backcountry Boxers MindfulHunter.com Mindful Hunter Youtube @mindful_munter on Instagram Jay's Independent Pack Review: Part 1 | Part 2 Jay's Backcountry Breakfast Cereal... Combine and Vacuum Seal... 2-scoops Vanilla Whey Isolate 1oz Craisins 2oz Oat Crunch Cheerios 665 Calories 5g Fat 97g Carbs 58g Protein Exo Insider K4 Pack Giveaway: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Welcome to The First Monday. In these episodes, Steve & Mark talk through what's going on for them that month in the categories of The Gear, The Hunt, and the Hunter, as well as what's going on with Exo Mtn Gear. If you want an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at what we are doing, researching, and learning, or just what we are excited about, this is it. Links and resources mentioned in this episode... Submit your Exo Mtn Gear tagline: [email protected] Exo Email Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  Huntin' Fool Draw Deadlines: https://www.huntinfool.com/resources/draw-deadlines  Grand Canyon Death Hike (Last year's recap: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/2024-death-hike)  Determining your effective range with a rifle: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/498  ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

If you are new to backpack hunting, you are probably overwhelmed with what you need, where you can go, and how to get started. In this podcast, we are joined by Josh Kirchner from Dialed-In Hunter to discuss the first steps that beginning backpack hunters need to take to get started backpack hunting. Free gear lists, training plan, nutrition guide, and more: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/backpack-hunting-for-beginners The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions and share some news and updates on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss... A limited-run of K4 3600s in Multicam Why Exo switched from Titanium to Carbon Fiber Using dirt bikes for hunting and packing out meat Hunting Alaska solo Using a poncho as rain gear, a tarp, and a groundsheet Altitude sickness prevention and treatment Links for this episode... Multicam K4: https://exomtngear.com/multicam  Steve's Dirt Bike Elk Hunt Story: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/406  Altitude Sickness Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/140  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Jeremy Dugger (@muleymojo) is the owner of Xpert Archery. After hearing story after story about bowhunters' experiences with broadhead performance on animals, he decided to start formally collecting data on the type of broadhead used, the distance of the shot, the arrow weight, the bow's draw weight, and the lethality or lack of recovery of the animal. Now, with over 500 responses in his data collection, he joins us to share some of the statistics and the takeaways that we, as bowhunters, should consider. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions and share some news and updates on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss... The new "Tallboy" K4 Nalgene Holder Exo on Joe Rogan Mark's Midnight "Death Hike" Follow-up Bivy Questions Gear Confirmation Bias  Using Pack Space Efficiently Links for this episode... Pre-Order the "Tallboy" K4 Nalgene Holder: https://exomtngear.com/tallboy Exo Email & Pack Giveaway: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  Exo on Joe Rogan: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHJ3_64Sf2g/ Steve's 10-Day Sheep Pack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhGoT3QqmkM  DCF Loop Kit: https://mountainlaureldesigns.com/product/dcf-loop-superkit/ or https://zpacks.com/products/stick-on-loop-clear-white DIY Sil Attachment Points: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8zhiup2pVY Moose Hunt Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxCisjM16JQUuY7xWQLdExN_rAHTxEsvv  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We have been using a bivy sack on backpack hunts for about a decade now. Often, we'll use our bivy under the stars. At times, we'll add a tarp or minimal shelter. And in extreme cases, we use a bivy sack inside the shell of a Hilleberg tent. On this podcast (and in the article below), you can learn how, why, and when we use bivy sacks. We also answer 10+ listener-submitted questions about the use of a bivy for backpack hunting. BIVY HUNTING ARTICLE — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/bivy-sacks-for-backpack-hunting  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions and share some news and updates on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss... Steve's adjustable box for step-up workouts Flight characteristics and ethical aspects of mechanical vs fixed broadheads (with more to come!) Better cell service in the backcountry Overuse of technology Adding extra down fill to a quilt (or sleeping bag) Links for this episode... Exo Email & Pack Giveaway: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  Steve's Step-Up Box: https://amzn.to/4i04MJJ Starlink Cell Beta: https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobile-starlink-beta-open-for-all-carriers ScreenZen App: https://www.screenzen.co/ Katabatic Alsek Quilt: https://katabaticgear.com/products/alsek-ultralight-quilt  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

While we have spoken with numerous wildlife agencies and employees on the Hunt Backcountry Podcast over the years, those conversations have generally focused on game management, policy and regulations, and hunter opportunity. In this episode, we discuss wildlife law enforcement with Matt — an Exo customer and an employee of Arizona Game & Fish. Matt shares his insights on mistakes that hunters make, the rules they break, how enforcement officers operate in the field, and much more. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Welcome to The First Monday. In these episodes, Steve & Mark talk through what's going on for them that month in the categories of The Gear, The Hunt, and the Hunter, as well as what's going on with Exo Mtn Gear. If you want an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at what we are doing, researching, and learning, or just what we are excited about, this is it. Links for this episode... Exo Email Notifications: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  Pre-Fit Barrel Questions (and/or general Podcast Qs): [email protected]  The NW Hunt Expo: https://nwhuntexpo.com/  Tenacious Tape (Clear Repair Tape): https://amzn.to/43eOUyu or https://amzn.to/41DbijE  Aziak Equipment Ridgeline Tripod: https://sandsarchery.com/products/aziak-ridgeline-tripod  Idaho Bear Identification: https://idfg.idaho.gov/hunt/bear-identification  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Cody joins us to share the story of the Mule Deer hunt that he shared with his brother and father this past fall. They hunted Montana for the first time and were able to go 3-for-3 on filling their tags. We discuss how they planned this hunt, how they scouted for this out-of-state hunt, how they battled the cold conditions, and how the hunt success happened. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions and share some news and updates on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss... Takeaways from Hunt Expo and the PNW Sportsmen's Show Future plans for The Experience Project  Big discounts on Hanwag Boots The 5 most-downloaded podcast episodes in 2024 What hunting podcasts and shows Steve & Mark follow  What they look for in game bags and how they keep blood out of their packs Links mentioned in this episode... The Idaho Sportsman Show, Feb 27 - Mar 2: https://www.idahosportsmanshow.com/ NW Hunt Expo, Mar 7-9: https://nwhuntexpo.com/ Hanwag Boot Sale: https://www.hanwag.com/us/en-us/outlet/ Best of 2024, #1 — Why Smaller Calibers May Be Better For Big Game Hunting (Part 1): https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/  Best of 2024, #2 — Why Smaller Calibers May Be Better For Big Game Hunting (Part 2): https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-2/  Best of 2024, #3 — Smaller Caliber Listener Q&A with Form: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-qa/  Best of 2024, #4 — Hunting & Human Performance with Dr. Andy Galpin: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/454  Best of 2024, #5 — Colorado Parks & Wildlife (Your Questions, Misconceptions, and More...): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/452  Best of 2023: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/best-of-2023  Recent Podcast with a "Meat Scientist": https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/508  EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected]  LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry  VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast 

Sierra Jepsen is a Meat Scientist and owner of Butcher Solutions, LLC. She joins us to discuss how big game hunters can effectively care for and prepare wild game meat. Sierra shares advice for processing big game in the field, caring for big game meat until it is frozen, and preparing big game meat for the best meals possible. Additional Information and Resources... Sierra's Website — https://butchersolutionsllc.com/ Sierra's Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/butcher_solutions_llc/  Video: "Everything You Need Know About Processing Wild Game" — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVLjN9CoHzI Video: "In-Depth Butchering Tips From A Meat Scientist" — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVkI46l4g4w  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Colt and his 10-year-old daughter, Cedar, join us to share the story of their backpack mule deer hunt from this past fall. This was Cedar's first backpack hunt and it was a joy to hear her share her experience, what she enjoyed about the hunt, what she learned, and more. After the hunt story, Colt shares some of what he has learned about getting Cedar comfortable shooting and how they prepared for her first backpack hunt. Connect with Colt: https://triplecprecision.com/  The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Before hitting the road for Hunt Expo, Steve & Mark answer your listener questions (and go on a couple of rants) on this Monday Minute episode. A warning to the sensitive ears... Yes, there are a few F-words dropped in this one! They answer... Where can you see Exo at events? (This week AND next month!) What does the "K" in K4 stand for? Compared to a traditional pack frame, how does the K4 frame handle moose quarters? Why have Mark & Steve contradicted themselves by using all-copper Hammer bullets and cup-and-core ELD bullets? Why jump on and off the "bandwagon"? What are differences between crampon and microspikes? When do you use each one? And what are some specific models to consider? Links mentioned in this episode... Hunt Expo in SLC, Feb 13-16: https://huntexpo.com/ Pacific NW Sportsmen's Show, Feb 12-16: https://www.thesportshows.com/shows/pacific-northwest/show-information/ The Idaho Sportsman Show, Feb 27 - Mar 2: https://www.idahosportsmanshow.com/ NW Hunt Expo, Mar 7-9: https://nwhuntexpo.com/ Subscribe to Exo Mtn Gear on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ExoMountainGear?sub_confirmation=1 K4 Strap Extension Set: https://exomtngear.com/extensions Kahtoola Microspikes: https://kahtoola.com/traction/microspikes-footwear-traction/ Black Diamond Spikes: https://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en_US/shop/traction-devices/ EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter  ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected]  LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry  VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast 

Any elk hunter would love to spend dozens of days on the mountain throughout the fall. In this episode, a new elk hunter, Luke, tells us what he learned as he spent 20+ days pursuing elk in the mountains just outside his home. We discuss what he observed before the season, how elk behavior changed during the season, what he noticed about elk vocalization throughout September, and how his experience hunting elk in later rifle seasons compared to archery season. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Welcome to The First Monday. In these episodes, Steve & Mark talk through what's going on for them that month in the categories of The Gear, The Hunt, and the Hunter, as well as what's going on with Exo Mtn Gear. If you want an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at what we are doing, researching, and learning, or just what we are excited about, this is it. In addition to that, we also answer listener questions about a new pack from Exo in 2025, how to choose a temperature rating for your sleep system, and what gaiters we recommend. Links for this episode... The Experience Project HUNT Series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxCisjM16JQUuY7xWQLdExN_rAHTxEsvv Subscribe to Exo Mtn Gear on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ExoMountainGear?sub_confirmation=1 K3 Re-Stock: https://exomtngear.com/k3 Hunt Expo: https://huntexpo.com/ Pacific NW Sportsmen's Show: https://www.thesportshows.com/shows/pacific-northwest/ Kahtoola Gaiters: https://kahtoola.com/shop/gaiters/ PEAX Gaiters: https://www.peaxequipment.com/products/storm-castle-gaiter  OR Crocodile Gaiters: https://amzn.to/410n0EX EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Scott Gillespie of Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery joins us to discuss the use of tracking dogs to help hunters recover big game animals in the Rocky Mountain West. Although tracking dogs have a long history in some areas of the country, they have not been used significantly in the Mountain West. With recent changes in legislation and growing interest among trackers and hunters, Scott helps us understand how tracking dogs are now a viable option to help hunters recover big game animals in the mountains. We discuss how hunters can locate and contact a tracking team. When hunters should call for assistance. What it costs to have a tracking team help with recovery. When it doesn't make sense to use a tracking team. And much more. Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery: https://www.rockymountainbiggamerecovery.org/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/344223976211356/ Find A Tracker: https://www.unitedbloodtrackers.org/find-a-tracker/ The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark are back from SHOT Show. In this episode, they discuss the most exciting products they saw at SHOT and answer your questions about suppressors, rifle scopes, knives, and other products from the show. They also announce a limited run of Exo Pack Holsters and the latest Experience Project HUNT film. Links for this episode... Experience Project Moose Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrRHmkO1ybQ Exo Pack Holster by Ivory Holsters: https://ivoryholsters.com/product/limited-edition-exo-emg-pack-holster/ Coast USB-C Batteries: https://www.coastzx.com/ Seekins Element Hunter Rifle: https://seekinsprecision.com/rifles-new/havak-bolt-rifles/element-hunter.html MDT (MTN Gear) Bipods: https://mdttac.com/blog/shot-2025-mdt-launches-mountain-and-backcountry-bipods/ Manners Folding Stock: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFNq6f-PlPG/ DFND (Made in the USA Apparel): https://dfndusa.com/ Hogue Extrak Fixed-Blade Knife: https://www.hogueinc.com/extrak-fixed-blade-3-3-clip-point-blade-stone-tumbled-solid-orange-g10-scales Hogue Expel Replaceable-Blade Knife: https://www.hogueinc.com/expel-folding-scalpel-2-5-replaceable-blade-416ss-frame-solid-orange-g10-scales Burris Digital Rifle Scope: https://www.burrisoptics.com/riflescopes/veracity-ph DMT Dia-Fold Sharpener: https://amzn.to/4geTgs7 JK Armament Suppressors: https://jkarmament.com/product-category/suppressors/# Banish Suppressor with Muzzle Break: https://www.silencercentral.com/products/meateater Thunder Beast Suppressors: https://thunderbeastarms.com/products/ Steve's Moose Mount: https://www.instagram.com/p/DEft5Edvy04/ EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

This is NOT a normal episode. While we normally keep the amount of BS and banter in our podcasts to a minimum, this particular episode is full of both. Without much of a plan, Steve, Mark, Jake & Justin hit record and chatted from their Vegas hotel room after they wrapped up Sheep Show and started their time at SHOT Show. Amidst the jokes and laughs, there are some good insights as they discuss... Golfing 1.3 million dollar tags at Sheep Show Meeting podcast fans at the urinal The Experience Project Films Improving Exo’s customer service Justin’s lessons from 30+ days in Alaska last fall Performing at the edge of your limits How Steve found and developed a group of guys that can do such adventurous hunts, Death Hikes, work with Exo, etc EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Our guest for this episode, Brian, started going out west to hunt elk in 2012. In the years since then, he and some friends have continued to make trips to chase elk in the Rockies. As Brain shared, "We are not experts by any means, but we do have a 37% success rate over the years. And we are 100% when it comes to bringing back life-long memories and stories to exaggerate for years to come." Since Brian has many years of do-it-yourself elk hunting experience as a non-resident, and also has a group success rate that is higher than the average, we wanted to speak with him and cover lessons learned, mistakes made, and successes achieved in his elk hunting journey over the years. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo MtnGear: https://exomtngear.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss the future of Exo and selling the company, podcast sponsorships and endorsements, how they stash extra gear in trees, and choosing between 8x32 or 8x42 binoculars. Links for this episode... Wiser Precision Pynch Pulley: https://www.wiserprecision.com/products/pynch-pulley NL Pure Binoculars: https://sandsarchery.com/collections/swarovski-slc-binoculars EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Is there a real danger in eating meat from game that was killed with lead ammunition? And is there a real threat to species that scavenge on the carcasses of big game that were killed with lead bullets? Depending on who you ask, the answers to those questions will vary greatly. In this episode, we speak with Jim Heffelfinger, to help separate fact, fiction, and fairy tales, about the dangers of using lead-based bullets for big game hunting. Jim helps us realize that the conversation on lead-based bullets is much broader than hunters realize and that there are both real dangers, as well as unfounded fears on this topic. A disclaimer that shouldn't be necessary: None of the information presented today is medical advice. And this conversation has not presented all aspects of this topic. Please do careful research for yourself and make your own conclusions. Additional resources and links mentioned in this episode... Is eating game harvested with lead a human health issue? (Article): https://www.boone-crockett.org/when-lead-meets-red-meat-0 Lead Ammo and Wildlife: Separating Science from Advocacy (Article): https://www.themeateater.com/hunt/firearm-hunting/lead-ammo-and-wildlife-separating-science-from-advocacy  Jim's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cervidnut/  Jim’s Previous Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/440  $10 Goat Logo Shirt: ​​https://exomtngear.com/collections/10-year-logo-gear Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast 

Introducing The First Monday. This new segment of the podcast is an experiment, where Steve & Mark will talk through what's going on for them that month in the categories of The Gear, The Hunt, and the Hunter, as well as what's going on with Exo Mtn Gear. If you want an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at what we are doing, researching, and learning, or just what we are excited about, this is it. We plan to continue this format on the First Monday of each month, and then continue to use all other Monday Minute episodes to answer your listener-submitted questions (send those here: [email protected]). Links for this episode... - $10 SHIRT PRE-ORDER: https://exomtngear.com/collections/10-year-logo-gear - Matthews Lift-X: https://mathewsinc.com/pages/lift-x - Northwest Mountain Challenge: https://nwmountainchallenge.com/ - Mark's Garage Workout: https://the-experience-project.com/marks-garage-workout-for-mountain-hunting/ - Hunt Application Deadlines by State: https://www.huntinfool.com/resources/draw-deadlines - State Fish & Game Podcast Series... -- Arizona: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/440 -- Colorado: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/452 -- Idaho: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/442 -- Montana: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/443 -- New Mexico: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/441 -- Wyoming: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/438 EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss Steve's experience with the "fad" of ice baths, the pros and cons of attaching your bino harness to your backpack, the 4 Rules of Gun Safety and when they are broken while hunting, and more... Links for this episode... - Podcast Feedback Form (& Givewaway): forms.gle/nHE5o1tkN4agZC4P7 - FHF Gear Pack Suspension Kit: https://www.fhfgear.com/products/FHHS2CBOS.html - Marsupial Gear Pack Strap Kit: https://www.marsupialgear.com/products/pack-strap-kit - 4 Rules of Gun Safety: https://www.nssf.org/articles/4-primary-rules-of-firearm-safety/ EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss their experience using snowshoes, if digiscoping through binos can be a viable alternative to a spotting scope, and what's coming in the new year... Links for this episode... - Podcast Feedback Form (& Givewaway): https://forms.gle/nHE5o1tkN4agZC4P7 - MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes: https://amzn.to/405gCvE - 2021 Snowshoe Death Hike: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/2021-death-hike-in-the-frank-church - Sig Zulu 6 Image-Stabilized Binos: https://sandsarchery.com/products/sig-sauer-zulu6-hdx-stabilized-binoculars - PhoneSkope Bino Adapter: https://phoneskope.com/product/c3-optic-adapter-c3-034-i/ EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We want to make this show as valuable to YOU, our listeners, as possible. So we just launched a quick survey to gather feedback on what you like, don't like, and want to hear about in 2025 FEEDBACK FORM — https://forms.gle/nHE5o1tkN4agZC4P7 We will pick 3 random responses on January 1, 2025, and those participants will be able to choose a $100 Gift Card from Exo Mtn Gear or S&S Archery. Thank you for your feedback and support! EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Trevor Thompson joins us to share his experience getting into hunting and traditional archery, his journey of becoming an assistant guide in Alaska, and how his prior experiences as a SEAL, skydiver, base jumper, and backcountry skier relate to his hunting pursuits. We also discuss why Trevor shares Thanksgiving with vegans. And how each of us, as individual hunters, can be a positive influence on the future of hunting. Connect with Trevor: https://www.instagram.com/trevor.p.thompson/ Protekt Products: https://protekt.com/ Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss their off-season activity and if they honestly "train" to hunt year-round. Next, they dive into a rebuttal about their prior podcasts on the topic of using small rifle calibers for big game hunting, and what's to come on that topic... Links for this episode: - Alaska Caribou, Episode 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zw8_qlQAru4 - Alaska Caribou, Episode 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfPTderAnT4 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/exomountaingear?sub_confirmation=1 - Small Caliber Podcast, Part 1: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/ - Small Caliber Podcast, Part 2: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-2/ - Small Caliber Podcast, Part 3 (Q&A): https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-qa/ EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Sneaking in on two bull elk that are fighting, then arrowing one of those bulls on your first-ever bowhunt? That sounds too good to be true, but that is exactly how Stephen Follett's first archery hunt concluded this fall. Stephen joins us to share that story and what he learned about starting as a bowhunter after having extensive experience with precision rifles and long-range shooting. He also shares why, and how, he started making shooting and optics accessories through his company, LSWild. Learn more at: - LSWild Website: https://lswild.com/ - LSWild Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lswildhuntinggear/ - Scoped Action Cover (Standard): https://www.lswild.com/store/p30/Hunter_Scoped_Action_Armor.html - Scoped Action Cover (Ultralight): https://www.lswild.com/store/p123/Ultralight_Scoped_Action_Armor.html Email Sign-up: exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: exomtngear.com/podcast

Each year, going back to 2018, Steve and Mark have made a list of their "gear of the year" for that year. The goal is to select items that made a difference for them on their hunts that year. In this episode, they share their selections for 2024 and discuss why each item made the list. FULL LIST & LINKS: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/best-hunting-gear-of-2024 Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Mark is solo today to answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. He answers questions about his archery shot sequence, insulated down booties, reducing rifle recoil to spot impacts, a budget chassis rifle, and tips for packraft hunts. EXO SALE NOTIFICATION — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Items and resources mentioned in this episode: - Outdoor Vitals Down Booties: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/lt-hybrid-booties - Enlightened Equipment Torrid Booties: https://enlightenedequipment.com/torrid-booties/ - Exped Down Sock: https://www.expedusa.com/products/down-sock - Exped Bivy Booty: https://www.expedusa.com/products/bivy-booty - Exped Camp Booty: https://www.expedusa.com/products/camp-booty - Recoil Q&A with Form: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/mm-239 - SIG Cross Trax: https://www.sigsauer.com/cross-trax.html - SIG Cross: https://www.sigsauer.com/sig-cross-rifle.html - Bergara MgLite: https://www.bergara.online/us/rifles/premier/mglite-rifle/ - Savage 110 Ultralite Elite: https://savagearms.com/firearms/model/110-ultralite-elite - MDT HNT26 Chassis: https://mdttac.com/hnt26-chassis-system/ - XLR Element Mg Chassis: https://xlrindustries.com/products/element_4-0_magnesium_chassis - Mark's XLR vs MDT Review & Comparison: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/lightweight-folding-rifle-chassis - Packrafting Podcast with Thor: https://the-experience-project.com/how-to-use-a-packraft-for-hunting/ - ROK Straps: https://amzn.to/3YQDNrL ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Owner and founder of Outdoor Vitals, Tayson Whittaker, joins us on the Hunt Backcountry Podcast to discuss his 100-mile solo hike in the Wind River Range of Wyoming. We discuss what he learned from dealing with injuries, the mistakes he made on this trip and how he overcame them, stories from Tayson's backpack hunts this fall, what sacrifices he makes to be "ultralight" with his gear, what you need to know about changes in the outdoor apparel industry, and much more. This wide-ranging discussion truly has something for everyone. Links mentioned in this episode: - Tayson's 100-Mile Hike Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aepNiXyNzV8 - Outdoor Vitals: https://outdoorvitals.com/ - Tayson's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taysonwhittaker/ - ExpeDRY Down from Allied Feather: https://alliedfeather.com/info-room/products-innovations/expedry Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss using covers on spotting scopes, their experience with the Mtn Hntr Tripod, what knives they used on the Moose hunt this fall, and additional topics related to those listener questions. Items mentioned in this episode: - Vet Wrap: https://amzn.to/3CkqCHL - Kapture Gear Digiscoping: https://kapturegear.com/ - Mtn Hntr Tripod: https://mtnhntr.com/ - Aziak Backcountry Lite Tripod: https://sandsarchery.com/products/aziak-backcountry-lite-tripod - DMT Dia-Folder Sharpener (In The Field): https://amzn.to/40BkPb4 - Work Sharp Precision Elite Sharpener (At Home): https://amzn.to/48MMUOt - Eagle Hawk Knife: https://eaglehawkknives.com/collections/frontpage/products/handle-hunter - Argali Sawtooth Knife: https://argalioutdoors.com/products/argali-sawtooth-knife EMAIL NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

How far should you be shooting at big game with your hunting rifle? In this conversation with Form, we discuss the answer to that question — not from an ethical perspective, or from a technical perspective of terminal ballistics, but from a practical perspective of what YOU are capable of behind your rifle. Form shares some considerations to think through, and also some specific drills that you can use to assess your capabilities at distance, in variable conditions, and under stress. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Carl Ross Drill (Video & Target): https://shoot2hunt.com/product/s2hu-100-yd-hunting-rifle-drill/ - Form's MOA Target: https://shoot2hunt.com/product/form-moa-target/ Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Mark is joined by "Form" to answer your listener-submitted questions on rifles and ballistics. These questions were submitted in response to our previous conversations with Form. If you have not listened to those episodes (linked below), we highly recommend listening to them first. In today's Q&A, we discuss... - What to do if you cannot spot your impacts, even if you aren't shooting a heavy-recoiling magnum rifle? - What cartridge (and bullet) would Form take on a coastal Brown Bear hunt in Alaska? - What pistol cartridge and bullet would Form recommend for a sidearm carried for self-defense when hunting in Grizzly Bear country? - Why (and how) does grain weight matter in a given rifle cartridge; specifically in the context of using a 6.5 Creedmoor to hunt elk? - Is the wind drift of lighter bullets in smaller calibers not a reason to consider shooting bigger cartridges and heavier bullets? - Why do bullet and ammunition manufacturers continue to make and market more traditional, controlled-expansion and bonded bullets as 'best for big game' if more fragmenting bullets are more terminally effective? Our previous podcasts with Form: - https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/ - https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-2/ - https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-qa/ ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Jared and Cody join us to share the story of their experience planning, preparing for, and then going on a drop-camp Caribou hunt in the Brooks Range of Alaska. They discuss how the hunt came together, how they dealt with setbacks before the hunt, how they found success in going 4-for-4 on filling their tags, and what lessons they took away from the adventure. Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss tips for comfort in cold-weather hunts, choosing down vs synthetic for a sleeping bag or quilt, how the new iOS satellite messaging features compares to messaging through a Garmin InReach device, why Steve chose the 6mm Creedmoor over other 6mm rifle cartridges, and more... Links mentioned in this episode: - Mountain Goat Hunt Recap: https://the-experience-project.com/alaska-mountain-goat-hunt-breakdown/ - Synthetic Quilt from Enlightened Equipment: https://enlightenedequipment.com/revelation-apex/ - Steve's 6mm Creedmoor Rifle: https://the-experience-project.com/small-rifles-for-big-game/ - New Garmin Messanger Plus: https://sandsarchery.com/products/garmin-inreach-messenger-plus ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

This podcast was recorded on our Alaska mountain goat hunt, as we sat in the basecamp cabin after the hunt. In addition to hearing the conversation, the video version of this podcast includes footage from the hunt: https://youtu.be/7HVbJuvZiE0 Mark and Jake discuss how they each killed their goats. Joined by their guide, Mark Rowenhorst of Limitless Alaska Guiding, and Justin Nelson, they all discuss the logistical challenges of the hunt, how they handled adverse weather, how they pushed past discomfort, how they slipped their way through a snowy and heavy packout, and much more. WATCH on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7HVbJuvZiE0 PHOTOS: https://the-experience-project.com/alaska-mountain-goat-hunt-breakdown/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Stephen and James from Lathrop & Sons Boot Co. join us to discuss the anatomy of feet and footwear. With decades of experience in the outdoors, as well as with podiatry, the guys from Lathrop have some unique insights into footwear for hunting. While we have already discussed footwear in depth from our perspective, we wanted to bring in Stephen and James to share their perspective and provide you, the listener, with the most well-rounded information about footwear we could. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Lathrop & Sons: https://lathropandsons.com/ - Our Footwear Video & Podcast: https://the-experience-project.com/the-best-hunting-boot-is-wrong/ ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Mark, Jake, & Steve chat about the Alaska Mountain goat hunt they are starting today. You'll hear why Steve couldn't go, how Jake took his place, how Jake prepared on short notice, what they expect from the hunt, and much more... Links mentioned in this episode: - The Self-Control Crisis: https://www.hottakes.space/p/the-self-control-crisis - Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter - Mark's Mountain Goat Hunt Film: https://exomtngear.com/goat ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss how to load a cape and antlers when packing out, why they don't add a zipper to their waterproof dry bag liners for Exo packs, what rain gear they have been testing as part of The Experience Project, what to know about sensors in ballistic-solving rangefinders, why Steve chose the ELD-M bullet over other options in his 6mm Creedmoor, and more... Links mentioned in this episode: - Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter - How Rangefinders Work: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/337 - The Right (and Wrong) Way to Load Your Pack with Meat & Antlers: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-load-your-hunting-pack - Rab Namche Rain Jacket: https://rab.equipment/us/mens-namche-gore-tex-paclite-jacket - Exo Dry Bag: https://exomtngear.com/drybag - Swarovski EL Range T/A: https://sandsarchery.com/products/swarovski-10x42-el-range-ta-binocular - Share your Field Photos: [email protected] ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

This unscripted conversation was recorded on our Alaska moose hunt. Steve, Tyler, Dan & Justin passed the time while waiting for their flight from the field and decided to hit record and see where the conversation took them. The wide-ranging conversation covers everything from missing home while on the hunt, lessons and adventures from Death Hikes, terrain challenges on this moose hunt, future hunt plans and dream hunts, and, of course, bears. Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected] View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

This video podcast was recorded on our Alaska moose hunt, as we spent time waiting for a weather window for our transporter to come fly us out of the field. In addition to hearing the conversation, the video podcast (link below) includes footage from the hunt. Steve, Justin, Tyler & Dan discuss how they each killed their moose, the challenges they faced on this hunt, how they dealt with countless Grizzly bears, the gear that worked well for them, what they would have changed, and more… WATCH on YouTube: https://youtu.be/x4NoX1Hp0Hg PHOTOS — https://the-experience-project.com/alaska-moose-hunt-breakdown/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Steve returns from his Alaska moose hunt and shares why it was amazing, but why he will "never again" do this specific hunt. Steve & Mark discuss going 4-for-4 with their moose tags, the dozens of close grizzly bear encounters, the performance of Steve's 6mm Creedmoor on two moose, and what is to come from this hunt as part of The Experience Project. They also chat about the new satellite messaging features in iOS 18. Links mentioned in this episode: - Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter - Steve's 6mm Creedmoor: https://the-experience-project.com/small-rifles-for-big-game/ - Share your Field Photos: [email protected] ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Steve, Mark, and Mark (of @limitlessalaskaguiding) as they have a planning call for their upcoming Mountain Goat Hunt in Alaska. This is an unscripted, "behind the scenes" look at how they are planning their hunt, determining a hunting strategy, selecting gear, and more. Additional Information & Resources: https://the-experience-project.com/planning-our-mountain-goat-hunt Subscribe by Email to receive future podcasts, videos, articles, and more: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback: [email protected]

How can you help protect the future of wildlife, wild places, and hunting? Can you do anything that actually matters? We discuss these questions, and much more, with John Stallone of Howl for Wildlife. Mark & John discuss the importance of having a positive influence on non-hunters, the current threats and agendas from anti-hunters, how you (yes, YOU) can shape the future of wildlife and hunting, and much more... Resources mentioned in this episode: - Wildlife Deserve Better: https://wildlifedeservebetter.com/ - Howl for Wildlife: https://www.howlforwildlife.org/ - John Stallone: https://johnstallone.me/ ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Jake joins Mark for an overdue Monday Minute episode. They discuss the recent move of Exo HQ, what's to come on the podcast, and why post-hunt pack care (whether you use an Exo or not) is an underestimated and overlooked danger. Links mentioned in this episode: - New Exo HQ: https://exomtngear.com/contact - Hunt Kodiak with Foxtail Lodge: Contact Jerre at [email protected] or learn more at https://www.kodiakalaskafishinglodge.com/ - Pack Damage Example: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb_aTUbpJl9/ ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Steve and Mark as they recap their experience using packrafts on their recent Caribou hunt. They discuss their preparation with the rafts, the conditions of the river they floated, how they loaded the rafts with Caribou and gear, how the packrafts handled the swift water, and more... ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/packrafting-for-hunts-in-alaska/ Subscribe via Email: exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Join Steve and Mark as they recap their experience flying for their recent Caribou hunt. They discuss the commercial flights on Alaska Airlines, as well as their air charter flights with Nick from Nick's Air Service. They discuss tips hunters should know for flying into the field, how to pack a weapon and gear, how they flew home with meat and antlers, and much more... ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/flying-for-hunts-in-alaska Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

This podcast was recorded on our Alaska caribou hunt, as we spent a day stuck in camp, waiting for a swollen river to recede to safe levels — allowing us to begin rafting to our pickup point, where we would get flown out of the field a couple of days later. Steve, Mark, Justin, & Jeff discuss how they each killed a caribou bull in the days before this conversation. They detail how each encounter happened, what they did right, and what they did wrong. VIDEO & PHOTOS — https://the-experience-project.com/alaska-caribou-hunt-breakdown/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Join Steve and Mark as discuss some of the takeaways following their Caribou Hunt in Alaska. In this shorter, more informal episode, they talk through their expectations prior to the hunt, and how the reality of the hunt did or did not match those expectations. They also talk about some of the lessons they learned, the gear that stood out to them, how Steve's 6mm Creedmoor performed on two big Caribou bulls, and more. THE EXPERIENCE PROJECT — https://the-experience-project.com/post-hunt-debrief-alaska-caribou/ SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve called them, "a multitool of the backcountry." They can prevent injury, allow you to hike further with less fatigue, support a shelter, and enable you to shoot a rifle with more stability from various positions. If you are a backcountry hunter, you should own, carry, and use trekking poles. Period. In this video, Steve & Mark discuss why backcountry hunters should use trekking poles, what to consider when purchasing trekking poles, the mistakes that people make when using trekking poles, and how you can use trekking poles for more than hiking. VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/hunters-should-use-trekking-poles/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

When backpack hunting, a headlamp may be used for simple task lighting around camp, but it may also be a critical source of safety as you navigate difficult off-trail terrain with a heavy pack on a nighttime packout. A backpack hunter's headlamp needs to balance weight, performance, and efficiency. In this podcast episode, Steve & Mark discuss the unique demands of headlamps for backpack hunting, the headlamps we have used, and what headlamps we will be testing and reviewing moving forward... VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/headlamps-for-backpack-hunting/ Subscribe via Email: exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss why they don't use hammocks for backpack hunts, when to use wrist straps with trekking poles, why they aren't talking about bows on The Experience Project, and much more. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Hammock Camping the Right Way (Podcast): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/168 - Flying With Firearms (Video): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-fly-with-a-hunting-rifle - Travel Tips for Out-of-State Hunts (Podcast): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/417 THE EXPERIENCE PROJECT — https://the-experience-project.com/ SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Few things can affect a backpack hunt more than water. When water is plentiful, it becomes an afterthought. But when it is hard to find good water sources, living in the backcountry requires intentionality and effort. In this podcast, we discuss how we find, filter, and carry water on extended hunts. And in addition to this podcast, we have shared a video and links to other resources and research, which you can find at... https://the-experience-project.com/water-filters-for-backpack-hunts/ Subscribe via Email: exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

The hunting market is full of clothing brands — each one offering many types and styles of clothing layers, and often different camouflage patterns. And that is just the hunting market. If you're open to using solid colors for hunting, you can begin to shop for technical apparel from brands outside of the hunting space and have never-ending options on what to buy and wear. It can be hard to understand how to evaluate the clothing you need or know where to invest your money. We want to help cut through that confusion. In this podcast, Steve & Mark discuss their approach to clothing layers for backpack hunts, and how different seasons and conditions affect their layering strategies and gear choices. VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/clothing-layers-for-backpack-hunting/ (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:20) Socks (00:15:05) Baselayer Bottoms (00:20:29) Camouflage vs Solid Colors for Hunting (00:26:30) Is Budget Clothing Good Enough? (00:32:03) Hunting Pants (00:34:35) Our Work on Apparrel Design with Outdoor Vitals (00:36:58) Belts (00:38:17) Clothing Weight for Backpack Hunting (00:40:24) Underwear (00:44:45) Versatility of a Layering “System” (00:46:12) Puffy Pants (00:51:45) Recapping Bottom Layers (00:52:45) Overview of Top Layers (00:55:11) Next-to-Skin Top (01:03:04) Mid-layer Top (01:06:50) Hike Cool (01:11:59) Puffy Jackets (01:18:34) Rain Gear (01:29:42) Gloves (01:33:36) Headwear (01:34:33) Gaiters (01:37:21) Conclusion Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

At what point does nutrition help or hurt you on a backcountry hunt? When, and how, can your food choices make a difference in your performance? What are some of the common nutrition-related mistakes that hunters make when packing food for a trip? We answer these questions (and many more) with Kyle Kamp of Valley-to-Peak Nutrition. We also share a free nutrition planning spreadsheet, recipes for do-it-yourself backcountry bars, and more... VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/backcountry-nutrition-spreadsheet-and-recipe/ Valley-to-Peak Nutrition: https://v2pnutrition.com/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss tarp selection, bivy setups, groundsheets, suppressor protection, worn-out boots, factory ammo for 6mm Creedmoor, and more... THE EXPERIENCE PROJECT — https://the-experience-project.com/ SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

There are countless shelters on the market. Tents, tarps, and tipis. Materials such as silnylon, silpoly, and Dyneema. Ultralight options rated for 3-season use, and heavy-duty options rated for 4-season use. Single-wall and double-wall. Freestanding and non-freestanding. And the options don't end there! So how do you select the best shelter for your needs? And is there one shelter that can do it all for you? In this podcast, Steve & Mark discuss the various types of shelters available, the many shelters they have used, and what to consider when selecting a shelter for backpack hunting. VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/shelters-for-backpack-hunting/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

In this episode, we dive into the rifle that Steve built for all three of his Alaska hunts this fall. We discuss each component of the rifle (chassis, scope, suppressor, etc), why he chose the 6mm Creedmoor cartridge, what he uses for shooting support (tripod, bipod, etc), and how he manages ballistics in the field. VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/small-rifles-for-big-game/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Before Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode, they announce an ALL-NEW accessory for K4 Pack Systems — The Elk Call Kit. This kit includes a simple, fast, and secure bugle tube holder, as well as a shoulder harness-mounted holder for 2 elk reeds. CHECK IT OUT — https://exomtngear.com/callkit For listener questions, Steve & Mark discuss how they would plan meat care for an elk hunt in grizzly country (with multiple tags to fill), and talk about the trade-offs between killing quickly and minimizing meat loss. They also answer a listener's question about how (and why) to rate and review the podcast. ELK CALL KIT — https://exomtngear.com/callkit NEW EXO NALGENE — https://exomtngear.com/bottle NALGENE HOLDER & BOTTLE BUNDLE — https://exomtngear.com/nalgene SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Sleep is an important aspect of being able to hunt your best each day on a multiday backpack hunt. But getting quality sleep in the backcountry often doesn't come easy. Not only can your sleeping gear affect your sleep quality, but your gear choices also play a big role in how much weight and bulk is in your pack. In this podcast, we discuss the gear to consider for your sleep system, how to get the best performance out of that gear, and some tips for improving your sleep quality on your next backpack hunt. VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/sleep-systems-for-backpack-hunting/ Subscribe via Email: exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Form joins us to answer listener questions that were submitted in response to Episodes 469 & 470 on the topic of Why Smaller Calibers May Be Better for Big Game Hunting. To find the links mentioned in this Q&A, or to hear the previous two-part podcast on this topic, visit: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-qa/ To jump to specific questions and topics addressed in this conversation, refer to the timestamps below. Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected] (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:22) The most reliable trigger Remington 700 style actions (00:05:38) Is Extreme Spread is entirely meaningless? (00:15:47) Is near-max, high-velocity load development worth it? (00:16:40) Should you carry a pistol with a round in the chamber? (00:18:46) What is "drop safe" in pistols and rifles? (00:21:57) Does velocity or energy matter more for terminal performance? (00:33:10) The psychology and physiology of animals that don't die quickly. (00:41:11) Why do manufacturers still make traditional, controlled-expansion hunting bullets? (00:50:24) Why do manufacturers state that bullets are not suitable for hunting, when Form says those same bullets are ideal for terminal effectiveness? (01:00:41) How do you find verified data and trusted research on terminal ballistics? (01:03:35) Should smaller calibers be avoided because they have more wind drift? (01:10:04) The benefits of MIL over MOA and understanding your gun's "wind number". (01:17:52) What is better? The 6mm Creedmoor or the 22 Creedmoor? (01:18:51) Should you shoot the fastest cartridge with the most recoil that you can handle accurately? (01:22:12) Performing terminal ballistics research on live animals. (01:26:28) What is the most terminally effective non-lead, copper bullet? (01:32:25) How do all-copper, monolithic bullets expand at different impact velocities? (01:36:02) What is a good short-barrel rifle setup for someone shooting non-lead bullets? (01:42:19) What is Form's understanding of the dangers posed by eating game shot with lead bullets? (02:01:58) Puppies, Rainbows, & Additional Resources

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss choosing bivy camp locations while elk hunting, what they do with their food when hunting in bear country (specifically in Alaska), how to prevent vehicle break-ins at the trailhead, and more. SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Steve, Tyler, and Dan as they have a planning call for their upcoming Moose Hunt in Alaska. This is an unscripted, "behind the scenes" look at how they are planning their hunt, determining a hunting strategy, selecting gear, and more. Additional Information & Resources: https://the-experience-project.com/listen-planning-our-moose-hunt/ Subscribe by Email to receive future podcasts, videos, articles, and more: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback: [email protected]

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss the best way to carry and access a bugle tube on K3 and K4 packs, how to configure your pack when carrying trekking poles, a rifle, a tripod, and a spotting scope, and then discuss whether investing time and money into do-it-yourself bow tuning is worth it. Resources mentioned in this episode... - Small Caliber Discussions with Form: https://the-experience-project.com/?s=smaller+calibers - K3 Bugle Tube Trick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drwWRte2qcs - Jon Dudley Bow Setup Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKFf1gMGIT4pscxgVuVB98s49ribeqNLX SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Ben Reynolds returns to the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, joining Steve & Mark to discuss the topic of thriving (not just surviving) on difficult hunts. This is an open-ended conversation on the topic of thriving, which includes practical advice, personal experience, and even some philosophical perspective. MORE INFO & RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/thrive-on-difficult-hunts/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Jon Pynch (@jonpynch) is one of the top precision rifle competitors in the country, and a very accomplished mountain hunter. He joins us on the podcast to discuss how we all, as hunters, can become more proficient rifle shooters in a mountain environment. This is a wide-ranging conversation that will cover everything from techniques and practice drills, to the reason hunters should be extremely cautious about "long range hunting". MORE INFO & RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/mountain-rifle-shooting-tips Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Mark is joined by Scott Johnston, author of Training for the Uphill Athlete, owner of Evoke Endurance, and a dedicated outdoorsman and athlete with decades of experience. They discuss the physical demands of backcountry or mountain hunting, what hunters can learn from other outdoor athletes, and the best way to train for extended hunts in difficult terrain. Whether you are coming off the couch and starting a fitness journey, or you are an experienced athlete who already trains seriously, this conversation will help equip you with the knowledge and tools to physically prepare for adventurous hunts in the mountains. MORE INFO & RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/proven-training-for-mountain-hunting Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Steve & Mark discuss how to effectively use time in the final weeks leading up to a big hunt. They share what they are personally doing, as they find themselves 5 weeks out from their Alaskan Caribou Hunt, and they also provide general guidance for making the best use of the limited time available before any big hunt. If you want advice on finding time, making time, and effectively using time to prepare for any hunt, you will enjoy this episode. MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/final-hunt-preparation Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. The answer to why Exo will not be starting a boot company, if they plan to try barefoot-style boots, their thoughts on Schnee boots, how to select the best length for a rifle barrel, how much ammo to pack on a backcountry hunt, and much more... Resources mentioned in this episode... - Our Footwear Video & Podcast: https://the-experience-project.com/the-best-hunting-boot-is-wrong/ - Schnee Timberline: https://schnees.com/timberline-v2-0g-mens/ - Hanwag Alverstone: https://www.hanwag.com/us/en-us/men/trekking/alverstone-ii-wide-gtx/ - Vivo Barefoot Boots: https://www.vivobarefoot.com/us/tracker-forest-esc-mens-aw22 - Small Caliber Discussions with Form: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/ - Form Discusses Barefoot Boots: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7osIjciPdE SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Steve and Mark as they speak with Thor Tingey of Alpack Raft and talk about using Alpacka Packrafts for their upcoming Alaskan Caribou hunt. They discuss how to select a pack raft for hunting, what to know about using a packraft, the additional gear needed with a raft, how to stay safe on the water, and much more... MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/how-to-use-a-packraft-for-hunting/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Join Steve and Mark as they speak with their pilot, Nick from Nick's Air Service, for their upcoming Caribou Hunt in Alaska. They discuss how to plan a fly-in hunt, how to find a pilot, how to pack for the hunt, what to know about weight limits, and much more... MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/plan-a-fly-in-alaska-hunt/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Do you need the best binoculars on the market, or can you hunt effectively with a budget-friendly bino? Is a 10x42 really the best "do it all" binocular size? What about range-finding or image-stabilizing binoculars for hunting? What is the best way to connect binos to a tripod? What are some common mistakes that hunters make when setting up binoculars for their eyes? We answer these questions, and more, in this episode. VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/how-to-select-the-best-hunting-binocular/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

This is the second half of a conversation that explores how bullets kill and why smaller calibers may be better for big game hunting. Be sure to listen to Part 1 of this conversation (Episode 469) before listening to this 2nd-half of the discussion. In this episode we compare how different types of bullets create different types of wound channels, discuss the relationship between impact velocity and bullet expansion/upset, compare the terminal capabilities of Steve's 6mm Creedmoor and Mark's 7mm SAUM, and more. MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-2/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

This podcast will challenge decades of "common knowledge" about what type of rifle and bullet should be used for big game hunting. In fact, if you can't have an open mind about things you "know" to be true, you probably shouldn't listen to this. We don't say that to be dramatic, but because being willing to accept information that challenges widely-held assumptions is critical to processing this information... When you listen to this conversation you will hear that killing big game animals quickly, cleanly, and consistently doesn't typically require a big caliber and a tough bullet. And why the bigger, heavy-hitting rifles are mostly counter-productive. MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

After footwear, which is the most important gear item for the backcountry hunter, the next most important thing to have is a comfortable, strong, and durable pack system. We have spent well over a decade obsessing about pack systems for backcountry hunting. But right now we are not talking specifically about our Exo Mtn Gear pack systems; we want to talk about the essential things to consider when looking at any pack for backcountry or mountain hunting... VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/a-backcountry-hunting-pack-must-do-this/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Join Steve, Mark, and Jeff as they have a planning call for their upcoming Caribou Hunt in Alaska. This is an unscripted, "behind the scenes" look at how they are planning their hunt, determining a hunting strategy, selecting gear, and more. More Information: https://the-experience-project.com/planning-our-caribou-hunt/ Subscribe by Email to receive future podcasts, videos, articles, and more: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Ask A Question: [email protected]

Having the right footwear is the most important gear decision you can make as a backcountry hunter. And it is also one of the most difficult pieces of gear to get right. In this in-depth conversation, Steve & Mark discuss what they have learned over the past decade+, as they have hiked and hunted in dozens of footwear brands, models, and styles, over thousands of miles, in many states, and through all seasons and conditions. What they have learned is that much of the common wisdom about ‘the best boot for hunting’ is dead wrong... VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/the-best-hunting-boot-is-wrong/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Welcome to The Experience Project. In this episode, Steve & Mark explain the vision for The Experience Project and how it will change the podcast over the next several months. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast isn't changing permanently, and we will continue to include listener stories, industry guests, and more types of episodes in the future, but The Experience Project will take over the podcast as a focused series for the next few months. In addition to the podcast, The Experience Project will include a new website, new video content, new hunt films, and more. Stay tuned for the full launch of The Experience Project. If you want to make sure you don't miss it, sign up at https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Have questions, feedback, or ideas? Send them to: [email protected] Search or browse the podcast archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Steve and Mark for an unscripted discussion about the Experience of Backpack Hunting. Why they do it. What it means to them. And why it is such a valuable pursuit. Although this conversation isn't filled with tangible takeaways, we hope it inspires you to get out and experience an adventure unlike any other. EMAIL YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast